RUKUM WEST: The trial concerning the tragic loss of six individuals, including Navraj BK from Bheri Municipality in Jajarkot, continues to be deliberated upon at the Rukum District Court on Monday.
Under the stewardship of Judge Khadka Bahadur KC of Rukum District Court (Rukum West), the successive hearings that commenced yesterday are extending into today’s proceedings.
Yesterday witnessed a spirited debate between the government’s legal representation and nine attorneys representing the victims. Today, following the presentations from the plaintiff’s side, the defense arguments will be presented.
The court has expressed that the final arguments in this case will conclude by tomorrow, with the verdict expected to be delivered in the coming days.
On May 24, 2021, Navraj and his friends had arrived at Soti in Chaurjahari Municipality-8 of Rukum Paschim to celebrate his impending marriage to his girlfriend. Tragically, they were met with violence from the locals of Soti, resulting in the loss of six lives, including Navraj’s, and injuries to 12 others. Allegedly, this devastating attack stemmed from objections raised due to Navraj, a Dalit, intending to marry within the Malla community.
The bodies of the victims were discovered in the river Bheri, after being reportedly chased and assaulted by individuals representing the girl’s side and the local community.
In light of this appalling incident, the police initiated legal action in the Rukum West District Court, filing charges against 34 individuals from Soti village, encompassing accusations of murder, perpetration of violence, and perpetuating caste-based discrimination.
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