Jhansi: Wife and Mother-in-Law Sentenced for Abetment of Suicide

In a tragic incident in Jhansi, the Additional Sessions Judge of Garotha, Rakesh Verma, sentenced a wife and her mother-in-law to seven years of rigorous imprisonment for their involvement in abetting the suicide of a man. The court also imposed a fine of ?10,000 on both women. The case highlights the dark reality of domestic disputes turning into severe consequences, leading to irreversible actions.

The prosecution presented evidence that on March 20, 2012, Pratipal, a resident of village Bangra, returned home from the fields and got into an argument with his wife, Malti, over food preparation. Malti's aunt, Parvati, who sided with her niece during the dispute, added fuel to the fire, escalating the situation. Pratipal then left for the fields again, but the two women followed him there, continuing the argument and urging him to consume poison.

In a state of emotional turmoil, Pratipal took pesticide as suggested by his wife and mother-in-law. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Pratipal succumbed to the poison on the way. His father, Tau, filed a police report, and after a thorough investigation, charges were brought against Malti and Parvati. The court found both women guilty of abetting the suicide.

The sentencing of Malti and Parvati serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact domestic conflicts can have. It also reflects the importance of accountability in cases of abetment to suicide. The judgment underscores the seriousness of such offenses and the legal consequences of inciting someone to take such extreme measures.