An ex-serviceman has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a court in Baghpat district, Uttar Pradesh, after being found guilty of murdering a man during an argument over a small bank withdrawal. The ruling was issued by Additional District and Sessions Judge-I Poonam Rajput, who also imposed a fine of Rs 44,000 on the convict, identified as Pawan. This decision marks the conclusion of a murder case that has spanned over six years.

Details of the Incident

The incident occurred on May 18, 2020, in Kirthal village of Baghpat district. The victim, Deepak, was the brother of Komal Chauhan, a local banking correspondent who operated a public service centre in the area. According to court documents, the conflict arose when Pawan visited the centre and attempted to withdraw Rs 500 from his bank account. Komal, preparing to close for the day, suggested that Pawan return later to complete the transaction.

Despite the suggestion to return, Pawan insisted on making the withdrawal immediately. This resulted in an argument, which escalated rapidly. Witnesses alleged that during the altercation, Pawan brandished a firearm and shot at Deepak, who was present at the centre. Deepak suffered severe injuries and collapsed on the ground. Komal was able to flee the scene amidst the chaos.

Local residents and Deepak’s family members quickly transported him to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead before receiving medical attention. Following the incident, law enforcement officials apprehended Pawan and recovered the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting.

Trial and Sentencing

The police conducted a thorough investigation and subsequently filed a chargesheet in the case. The trial began after the formal proceedings were initiated, lasting approximately six years and four months. During this period, seven witnesses, including the complainant Komal, provided testimonies to support the prosecution’s case, which relied heavily on witness accounts and evidence collected during the investigation.

After evaluating the evidence and hearing arguments from both the defence and the prosecution, the court determined that Pawan was guilty of murder. As a result, he was sentenced to life imprisonment, effectively ensuring that he will serve time for the crime. The court’s decision was announced on September 19, 2026, bringing closure to a prolonged legal process.

Following the verdict, Pawan will remain incarcerated under the life sentence. It remains possible for the case to advance to a higher court should an appeal be filed. This may open opportunities for the convict to contest the findings of the trial court, thereby prolonging the legal proceedings associated with this tragic incident.

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