What was the significance of Sagar Ghosh's dying declaration?

Sagar Ghosh's dying declaration was critical as it identified his assailants, leading to the conviction of two men for his murder.

Why was the murder of Sagar Ghosh linked to the 2013 panchayat polls?

The murder occurred on the eve of the 2013 panchayat polls, suggesting a connection to political rivalries or election-related violence in Birbhum.

How did the Calcutta High Court rule on the murder conviction?

The Calcutta High Court upheld the life imprisonment sentence, confirming the validity of the victim's dying declaration and the convicts' guilt.

Home / Crime and Justice / Calcutta HC Upholds Life Sentence in Pre-Poll Murder

Calcutta HC Upholds Life Sentence in Pre-Poll Murder

21 Jan

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Summary

Victim's dying declaration confirmed life sentence for two.
Murder occurred the day before 2013 panchayat polls in Birbhum.
Calcutta High Court upheld conviction based on victim's statement.

Calcutta HC Upholds Life Sentence in Pre-Poll Murder

In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has affirmed life imprisonment for two convicts in a murder case stemming from the 2013 panchayat polls. The victim, Sagar Ghosh, father of an independent candidate, was fatally shot at his residence in Birbhum the night before the elections. His dying declaration to his wife and daughter-in-law was crucial evidence.

The court's division bench noted that the victim's statement was made immediately after the crime, indicating he had no opportunity to fabricate details or falsely accuse anyone. Medical examinations confirmed the victim's consciousness despite severe pain, strengthening the validity of his declaration.

The two convicts, previously members of a local TMC panchayat, appealed their conviction, arguing the victim was not in a state to identify them. However, the High Court upheld the trial court's 2018 decision, emphasizing the victim's mental state and the corroborating medical and eyewitness testimonies.