A local court in Bareilly has sentenced Vipin Saxena and his brother Akash to life imprisonment for the murder of Vipin’s wife, Vineeta. The sentencing was based on the testimony of the couple’s six-year-old daughter, who was the sole eyewitness in the case. Vipin had initially told the police that Vineeta had a quarrel with his brother Akash, which led to her falling down the stairs and subsequently dying from her injuries. However, the autopsy report revealed 12 ante-mortem injuries, including eight deep cuts on Vineeta’s head.

According to the additional district government counsel, Sachin Jaiswal, Vineeta and Vipin got married in June 2015 and had a daughter in 2016. However, their relationship turned sour after Vipin started an extramarital affair with a local woman. Vipin began physically abusing Vineeta and also demanded more dowry.

The breakthrough in the case came when Vipin and Vineeta’s daughter told the police that her father and uncle were responsible for her mother’s murder. Based on her crucial eyewitness account and other circumstantial evidence, the court found Vipin and Akash guilty under IPC sections 302 (murder) and 498-A (cruelty towards a married woman by her husband or relatives). They have been sentenced to life imprisonment and a fine of Rs 27,000.

This case highlights the importance of eyewitness testimony, even when it comes from a young child. The court recognized the credibility of the daughter’s account and delivered justice to Vineeta. It also serves as a reminder that domestic violence and dowry demands continue to be significant issues in India, leading to tragic consequences in many cases.

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