Shillong, Sep 28: The Meghalaya High Court has overturned a trial court’s decision that previously acquitted Bernard Lyngdoh Phawa and Bonie Lyngdoh Phawa, accused in the murder of 21-year-old Biplab Das, a student at St. Anthony’s College in 2006.

The division bench, comprising Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh, delivered the verdict on Wednesday, September 27, finding the accused guilty. They were sentenced to life imprisonment under Section 302 IPC, along with three years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 201 IPC. The sentences will run concurrently, ensuring both individuals serve a combined punishment for their involvement in the crime.

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The case originated when Biplab Das went missing on February 18, 2006. A search party, formed by his local guardian, eventually uncovered crucial evidence, including a phone call made by Biplab on the night of his disappearance. This led to Bernard’s arrest on February 20, 2006, on charges of kidnapping for ransom under Section 364A of the Indian Penal Code. Following his interrogation, Bernard revealed the involvement of Bonie, who was apprehended on February 23, 2006.

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A post-mortem examination conducted on February 22, 2006, confirmed that Biplab’s cause of death was strangulation, with an estimated date of death of February 20, 2006. Despite the police’s efforts, the trial court acquitted Bernard and Bonie on March 26, 2019. However, the recent ruling by the High Court, emphasising the heinous nature of the crime and the accused’s common intention, has resulted in their conviction and sentencing. The High Court has also directed the immediate custody of the two individuals to commence their sentences.

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