Background and Incident
On Thursday, an Odisha court rendered a significant verdict in a 15-year-old murder case, sentencing 14 individuals to life imprisonment. The case stems from a violent attack on March 12, 2009, during Holi celebrations, which resulted in the death of Siba Nagabansa. The assault occurred at Nagabansa’s residence in Ghasi Sahi, Paralakhemundi, and was fueled by longstanding enmity among the accused.
Details of the Crime
Public Prosecutor Brundaban Nayak detailed the crime, noting that the attackers entered Nagabansa’s home while he was asleep following Holi festivities. The assailants brutally beat him, causing severe injuries that led to his death six days later while he was undergoing treatment at a hospital. The police promptly registered an FIR on the day of the attack, leading to the arrest of the suspects. By August 9, 2010, a chargesheet was filed against the 16 accused individuals, all of whom were initially granted bail.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
After years of legal proceedings, the Additional District Judge, Pradeep Kumar Samal, convicted 14 of the original 16 accused. Two of the accused had passed away during the lengthy trial process, and therefore, were not sentenced. The convicted individuals received life imprisonment, reflecting the severity of their crime. Additionally, each convict was imposed a fine of Rs 10,000.
The court’s verdict is a culmination of prolonged legal efforts to address the violent crime. The lengthy delay in reaching a conclusion highlights the complexities involved in prosecuting cases with intricate histories of animosity and violence.
Identity of the Convicts
The 14 individuals sentenced to life imprisonment are: Sakalamukhi Ballabha (84), Guralu Budu (56), Nagabansa Nagarjuna (28), Padala Prasad (47),Jilipi Krishna (42),Nagabansa Ramaswami (36),Liari Suresh (42),Nagabansa Ramakrushna (34),Sakalamukhi Madhava (26),Nagabansa Simadri (62), Harikrishna Nagabansa (50),Nagabansa Padman (41),Nagabansa Radhakanta (43),Guralu Gopala (62),Nagabansa Bhaskar, Jangam Harinath.
These individuals were found guilty not only of Nagabansa’s murder but also of attacking and molesting a woman at the same location on the day of the incident. The woman, who was rescued and hospitalized, also succumbed to her injuries, prompting her family to lodge a complaint with the police.
The sentencing of the 14 accused brings a measure of justice after a protracted legal battle. The case underscores the challenges faced by the legal system in addressing long-standing feuds and violent crimes. Despite the delay, the court’s decision represents a significant step towards accountability and closure for the victims’ families.
(With inputs from agencies)
