Mumbai ex-cop Pradeep Sharma has been jailed for life in a 2006 fake encounter case.
The Bombay High Court has delivered a verdict that reverberates through Mumbai‘s legal corridors.
Former policeman Pradeep Sharma has been handed a life sentence for his involvement in the staged encounter of Ramnarayan Gupta, alleged to be a close aide of gangster Chhota Rajan, back in 2006.
Pradeep Sharma jailed for life
Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Gauri Godse of the division bench overturned the 2013 judgment of the sessions court, denouncing it as “perverse” and “unsustainable.”
The bench strongly criticized the trial court for dismissing compelling evidence against Sharma, emphasizing that the evidence consistently pointed to his complicity in the crime.
“The trial court had overlooked the overwhelming evidence available against Sharma. The common chain of evidence unerringly proves his involvement in the case,” the court said.
Upheld Convictions, Quashed Sentences
In a comprehensive ruling, the high court upheld the convictions and life sentences of 13 individuals, including policemen, while simultaneously exonerating six other accused and nullifying their sentences.
This nuanced decision reflects a meticulous examination of the evidence presented during the trial.
Complex Legal Battle: Appeals and Counter-Appeals
The legal saga surrounding this case witnessed a flurry of appeals filed in the high court.
Both the prosecution and the victim’s brother, Ramprasad Gupta, contested Sharma’s acquittal, highlighting the gravity of the charges and the imperative for justice to be served.
Prosecution’s Assertion: Officers Betrayed Public Trust
Special public prosecutor Rajiv Chavan articulated a poignant argument, underscoring the betrayal of public trust inherent in the case.
He portrayed the involvement of law enforcement officers in orchestrating a cold-blooded murder as a grievous breach of duty and a stain on the institution’s integrity.
Recounting the Tragedy: The Events of November 11, 2006
The incident in question unfolded on November 11, 2006, when a police team apprehended Gupta, also known as Lakkhan Bhaiya, in Vashi under suspicion of affiliation with the Rajan gang.
Later that day, Gupta was tragically killed in a staged encounter near Nana Nani Park in Versova, marking the culmination of a meticulously planned operation.
The Bombay High Court’s verdict serves as a pivotal moment in the quest for justice, sending a resounding message about accountability and the sanctity of the law.
As Pradeep Sharma faces the prospect of life behind bars, the repercussions of this landmark ruling will undoubtedly resonate far beyond the confines of the courtroom.
Also read: Delhi High Court takes action against webseries “College Romance” over vulgar language
