Daijiworld Media Network - Patna

Patna, Apr 29: In a disturbing case highlighting the consequences of domestic conflict, a court in Begusarai, Bihar, on Wednesday sentenced a man to life imprisonment for the murder of his own son.

The verdict was delivered by Principal District and Sessions Judge Rishikant, who found Sudhir Kumar guilty under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. Along with the life sentence, the court imposed a fine of ?15,000, with an additional three months’ imprisonment in case of non-payment.

According to Public Prosecutor Santosh Kumar, the incident occurred on June 9, 2019, in Pidholi village under Teghra police station limits. The victim, Alok Kumar, was sitting outside his house when his father allegedly attacked him from behind with a sharp weapon, resulting in his death on the spot.

The First Information Report (FIR), filed by the victim’s wife Abha Devi, stated that the accused was addicted to alcohol and palm toddy. It alleged that he had sold a plot of land and spent the proceeds on intoxicants. When he attempted to sell another plot, family members, including the victim, opposed the move, leading to a confrontation.

During the trial, the prosecution examined seven witnesses, including family members, neighbours, a doctor, and the investigating officer. Based on witness testimonies, medical evidence, and other material on record, the court convicted the ????? on April 27, 2026, and pronounced the sentence two days later.

The court also directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide compensation to Abha Devi.

The case underscores how substance abuse and financial disputes can escalate into severe violence within families, while reinforcing the judiciary’s stance on strict accountability in such crimes.