Mathu alias Jagdishv.State of Uttarakhand

Sentence Reduction in Culpable Homicide Case Considering Long Pendency and Nature of Injuries

Case Snapshot

Case Name: Mathu alias Jagdish v. State of Uttarakhand

Citation: 2026 INSC 658

Bench: Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice Arun Palli

Date of Judgment: June 25, 2026

Area of Law: Criminal Law, Culpable Homicide, Sentencing

Judgment in Brief

The Supreme Court modified the sentence of the appellant from rigorous imprisonment for five years to the period already undergone (approximately one and a half years) while upholding his conviction under Section 304 Part II of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The Court held that the injuries suffered by the deceased were more likely caused by his fall into a dry canal with a rock bed rather than by stones thrown by the appellant. Considering that the incident occurred in 1997, almost three decades ago, and the appellant was now over 60 years old, the Court reduced the sentence to meet the ends of justice. The conviction was maintained, but the sentence was significantly reduced.

Relevant Facts

• On February 12, 1997, a dispute arose between the deceased, Padam Singh Shahi, and one Manua alias Puran regarding a watch sold by the deceased about 15 days prior.

• The dispute escalated into a scuffle. The appellant, Mathu alias Jagdish, along with Manua and Ramu, assaulted the deceased and pushed him into a dry canal.

• The prosecution alleged that the appellant threw a stone that hit the deceased on his head, causing fatal injuries.

• The deceased suffered three lacerated wounds, including a severe head injury with a compound comminuted fracture.

• The Sessions Court convicted the appellant and two others under Section 304/34 IPC and sentenced them to five years rigorous imprisonment.

• The High Court affirmed the conviction and sentence.

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