Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (RJP)

Mangaluru, Jun 1: A man has been convicted on the charges of mental harassment and atrocity on his wife who had prompted her to end her life.

Praveen Chandra (35) from Mandadigudde in Bantwal is the person convicted.

Judge C M Joshi from first additional district sessions court delivered the judgement and sentenced Praveen Chandra to 5 years rigorous imprisonment with Rs 25,000 fine. His mother Devaki (68) and sister Sunitha (37) who were co-accused in the case stand acquitted due to lack of evidence.

As per the details of the case, Praveen Chandra had married Chandrika (22) on March 20 in 2011. Devaki and Sunitha harassed Chandrika without even letting her cook and use utensils. When Chandrika complained to husband, he supported his mother and sister.

After Chandrika insisted to stay separate, the couple moved to a rented house in Yekkur in city on June 11in 2011. But Sunitha came to that house also on June 28 and abused Chandrika. “You did not behave properly with my mother. You disobeyed her.” she said.

Pained by this, Chandrika took the extreme step of ending her life on the same day by hanging in the room. A case was registered at Mangaluru rural station and a chargesheet was submitted subsequently. 18 witnesses had testified including the parents of the deceased.

The court after hearing the arguments convicted and sentenced Praveen Chandra. He received 3 years rigorous imprisonment for abetting suicide under section 306 of IPC and Rs 15,000 fine with additional 9 months if he does not pay the fine. Praveen Chandra also received, 2 years imprisonment for mental harassment and physical torture under section 498 A of IPC with a fine of Rs 10,000 and 6 months additional jail if he fails to pay the fine.

Rs 20,000 out of fine collected will go the parents of the deceased, ordered the court.