A Delhi court has postponed the sentencing of Bihar BJP MLA Raju Kumar Singh, recently found guilty of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and Arms Act violation in connection with a woman’s death during celebratory firing at a New Year’s Eve party in Delhi in 2018. The court has rescheduled the sentencing to July 3 and requested a report from the Probation Officer on Singh before determining the punishment. Singh, during the hearing, appealed for probation release and requested the court to consider his health conditions and family responsibilities while deciding the sentence.
Singh’s counsel argued for leniency, highlighting his legislative experience, parenthood, and health issues including kidney ailments and diabetes. Last week, Singh was convicted under Section 304 Part II of the Indian Penal Code and Section 30 of the Arms Act for firing from a licensed pistol at a crowded gathering, knowing the act could lead to death. The court ordered Singh’s custody post-conviction and scheduled June 9 for discussions on the sentence’s extent.
The case dates back to December 31, 2018, when a New Year’s celebration at a Delhi farmhouse turned tragic. A bullet fired during the festivities hit architect Dr. Archana Gupta, causing her eventual demise. An FIR was lodged at Fatehpur Beri police station, leading to Singh’s arrest and others during the investigation. The court, in its conviction ruling, noted Singh’s awareness that firing from his licensed weapon at a crowded party could be fatal.
While Singh was convicted, his wife, Renu Singh, and two other co-accused were acquitted due to doubt. The impending sentence on Singh could impact his political career, as a prison term exceeding two years may result in disqualification from elected office under the Representation of the People Act.
