Fined ₹7,500 for Abuse and Threats; Imprisonment Ordered for Non-Payment
Almora Correspondent – A man has been convicted and fined for threatening and verbally abusing a Village Panchayat Development Officer during a government camp held at the Chaukutia Block office. Judicial Magistrate Rajendra Kumar of the Dwarahat Court has found Hira Singh Patwal, a resident of Kotyuda Taal, Chaukutia, guilty under Sections 221 and 352 of the Indian Penal Code.
The court has imposed a fine of ₹2,500 under Section 221 and ₹5,000 under Section 352. In case of non-payment, the accused will face simple imprisonment for one month and two months respectively.
The incident occurred on 26 July 2024, during an official camp at the Chaukutia Block office. The accused reportedly pressured Village Development Officer Subodh Kandpal to forcibly register a proposal in the name of the Block Pramukh. When the officer refused citing procedural guidelines, the accused verbally abused him and issued life threats.
Following the incident, the victim informed other panchayat officials, who confirmed that the accused had previously been involved in similar threatening behavior. A formal complaint was filed at Chaukutia Police Station, and after investigation, a chargesheet was submitted under IPC Sections 221 and 352.
During the trial, the prosecution presented a total of nine witnesses. Assistant Prosecution Officer Rajesh Kumar Arya supported the case with strong evidence, witness testimonies, and documents, leading the court to convict the accused and impose fines.
The verdict has been welcomed by the local administrative staff, who see it as a positive step toward safeguarding the dignity of government employees.
