Life imprisonment to 98 people in Dalit atrocity case in Koppal

Mangalore Today News Network

Koppal, October 25, 2024: In a landmark ruling, 98 individuals have been sentenced to life imprisonment in a decade-old atrocity case involving violence against Dalits in Marakumbi village, in Karnataka’s Koppal district. The Principal District and Sessions Court in Koppal pronounced the verdict, marking a significant step against caste-based violence in the region.

The case dates back to August 28, 2014, when a violent altercation erupted between upper-caste villagers and Dalits. The conflict began after Manjunath, a Marakumbi resident, claimed that he was attacked by Dalits after watching a movie. Following these allegations, a mob allegedly retaliated by setting fire to multiple huts owned by Dalit families and physically assaulting several individuals, resulting in serious injuries and widespread damage to property.

A total of 101 people were charged in this case, with 98 receiving life sentences. The remaining three defendants, who also included members from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities, were sentenced to five years of rigorous imprisonment. The case was initially registered by an individual, Bhimesh, who filed a complaint at the Gangavathi Rural Police Station, setting off a prolonged legal battle.

The presiding judge, after declaring the accused guilty on October 21, emphasised that the sentencing was intended to uphold justice and deliver a strong deterrent message against caste-based violence. The court’s decision comes after extensive examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and a series of lengthy legal proceedings over the years.