A Mohali court on Wednesday sentenced a former Superintendent of Police (Vigilance) and a businessman to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment in connection with the 2011 suicide of an Excise and Taxation Officer (ETO). The court also imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh on each of the convicts.
Case Background
The ETO, identified as Rajesh Kumar, had died by suicide in 2011. He was posted in the Excise and Taxation Department in Mohali. In his suicide note, Kumar alleged that the then SP Vigilance, Balwinder Singh, and a businessman, Gurpreet Singh, had harassed and mentally tortured him, leading him to take the extreme step.
Investigation and Trial
The case was investigated by the Punjab Police. After a thorough probe, a chargesheet was filed against the two accused. The trial commenced in 2012. During the proceedings, the prosecution examined 25 witnesses and presented documentary evidence to establish the charges of abetment to suicide.
The defense counsel argued that the suicide note was fabricated and that there was no direct evidence linking the accused to the incident. However, the court found the prosecution's case credible and convicted both individuals under Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code (abetment to suicide).
Court's Verdict
Additional Sessions Judge Rupinder Singh pronounced the verdict, sentencing both convicts to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment. The court also directed that the fine amount be paid to the victim's family as compensation.
The judge observed that the convicts, being public servants and influential individuals, had misused their positions to harass the deceased. The court emphasized that such actions cannot be tolerated in a civilized society and that the rule of law must prevail.
Reactions
The victim's family expressed satisfaction with the verdict. They stated that justice had been served after 13 years of legal battle. The family thanked the court and the prosecution for their efforts.
Legal experts noted that this case highlights the importance of holding public servants accountable for their actions. They added that the judgment serves as a deterrent against harassment and misuse of power.
