A trial court in Datia district, Madhya Pradesh, on June 18 sentenced five individuals to life imprisonment for the murder of a young couple in an honour killing case that came to light in January 2024. The verdict was delivered by the Court of the Second Additional District and Sessions Judge, Seondha.
Conviction and Sentences
The court found Arvind Yadav (41), his son Baldau Yadav (18), Raju Yadav (37), Deepak Yadav (28), and Golu Vishwakarma (26) guilty of murdering Neha Yadav and Rohit alias Bhura Vishwakarma. Arvind Yadav, Raju Yadav, and Golu Vishwakarma were sentenced to life imprisonment and fined Rs 4,000 each. Baldau Yadav and Deepak Yadav were also awarded life imprisonment, with fines of Rs 5,000 each.
Details of the Crime
According to the prosecution, Neha and Rohit went missing on January 22, 2024. Rohit had been living with relatives in Rubaha village and was allegedly in a relationship with Neha, the daughter of accused Arvind Yadav. After learning that the couple had eloped, the accused confronted Rohit's relatives and threatened to kill the couple for bringing dishonour to the family.
On January 24, relatives received information that the couple had been murdered. Their bodies were later discovered in a water channel near agricultural fields in Rubaha village. Based on a complaint filed by Rohit's uncle, Brijkishore Vishwakarma, police registered a case under sections related to murder, destruction of evidence, and criminal conspiracy.
Investigation and Trial
During the investigation, police alleged that the accused killed the couple and dumped their bodies to conceal the crime. After examining witnesses and documentary evidence, the court convicted all five accused. Assistant District Prosecution Officer Prakash Singh Narwariya represented the prosecution. The court held that the murders were committed in the name of family honour and warranted the maximum punishment short of death.
