Jaisalmer Court Delivers Life Sentences in Dowry Death Conviction
In a significant ruling, an Additional District and Sessions Court in Pokhran, Jaisalmer, has convicted a man and his mother in a dowry death case, sentencing both to life imprisonment with rigorous labour. The court, presided over by Justice Dr Mahendra Kumar Goyal, also imposed a substantial fine of Rs 3 lakh on each of the accused, underscoring the severity of the crime.
Details of the Case and Conviction
The court found Surender and his mother, Sita Kanwar, guilty for the tragic death of Surender's wife, Chandrakanwar, who died after being allegedly set on fire in June 2016. According to the prosecution, Chandrakanwar was married to Surender, a resident of Ujlan village, on February 22, 2015. Soon after the marriage, she faced continuous harassment and cruelty from her husband and in-laws over dowry demands.
The accused were reported to have beaten her, threatened her, and warned of burning her to death if their demands were not met. Her family claimed they attempted to counsel the in-laws multiple times and even fulfilled some of their demands in an effort to resolve the situation.
Events Leading to the Tragic Death
On June 19, 2016, Chandrakanwar reportedly called her parental family, expressing that she was being beaten and threatened with death, and urgently requested them to take her away. Before her family could reach her, Surender and his mother allegedly attempted to burn her. Chandrakanwar sustained serious burn injuries and was admitted to Mahatma Gandhi Hospital in Jodhpur, where she later succumbed to her injuries during treatment.
Following a complaint by her brother, Prithvidan, the Pokhran police registered a case and conducted a thorough investigation into the matter. Additional Public Prosecutor Samandarsingh Rathore represented the state in the court proceedings, ensuring a robust legal process.
Implications of the Court's Decision
This conviction highlights the ongoing issue of dowry-related violence in India and serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences for such heinous acts. The life imprisonment sentences and hefty fines reflect the judiciary's commitment to combating dowry deaths and protecting women's rights. The case underscores the importance of timely intervention and legal recourse in preventing such tragedies, as well as the role of law enforcement and prosecution in securing justice for victims.
