A Delhi court has cleared two individuals accused in a 1999 murder case connected to a plastic factory in Uttam Nagar. The court observed that the prosecution could not establish the complete chain of circumstantial evidence linking them to the alleged crime.
Background of the Case
The case involved the suspected murder of Ram Swaroop, a man from Bihar who came to Delhi for work. He found employment at a plastic recycling unit. In October 1999, authorities discovered his body in a locked godown in the Matiala area near Uttam Nagar. He was found under a machine used for melting polythene bags.
Initial Suspects and Developments
Suspicion initially fell on Pappu Yadav, the owner of the plastic recycling unit, and three laborers: Sakinder Kumar, Vijay Yadav, and Montu Yadav. Notably, Vijay Yadav was also Ram Swaroop's brother-in-law. Following the incident, Pappu, Vijay, and Sakinder disappeared. Montu Yadav received an acquittal in 2010.
Court's Observations and Ruling
Nearly two decades later, the court delivered its verdict. It stated there was no direct evidence against the accused. No eyewitness came forward to testify about Ram Swaroop's murder. The court held that the prosecution failed to prove the suspects' involvement beyond reasonable doubt.
Additional Sessions Judge Deepak Wason acquitted Pappu and Sakinder of charges under several Indian Penal Code sections. These included Section 302 for murder, Section 201 for causing disappearance of evidence, Section 174A for non-appearance in response to a proclamation, and Section 34 for common intention. Vijay Yadav remains absconding. The case went to trial in September 2024 after the arrest of Pappu and Sakinder.
Prosecution's Allegations and Family Account
The prosecution alleged that Ram Swaroop was murdered inside the plastic recycling unit operated by Pappu Yadav. Ram Swaroop's brother, Chandu Yadav, provided a family account. He said Ram Swaroop and Vijay Yadav went to Delhi to work in the unit. After about twenty-five days, Pappu and Vijay returned to their native place along with Sakinder and Montu. However, Ram Swaroop did not return with them.
Key Reasons for Acquittal
The court issued its ruling on January 5. It pointed to the absence of crucial evidence and inconsistencies in the testimonies of key witnesses. The court stated these factors rendered the prosecution's case unreliable. This lack of a solid evidentiary chain ultimately led to the acquittal of the two accused.
