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The ruling was widely praised, with many seeing it as a positive step for environmental protection. (representative picture)
The legal battle started when Narayan Mandal, a resident of Sanohar police station area, lodged a complaint against his son-in-law Rajkumar.
In a surprising turn, a court handed down an unusual penalty in the 17-year-old case in Bhagalpur, Bihar. Rajkumar Mandal, who was accused of going on the run with his sister-in-law nearly two decades ago, was recently ordered by the 16th District Additional Judge to plant 25 saplings and obtain a certificate from the local police station as his verdict. The unconventional ruling surprised many and marked a significant departure from traditional penalties such as jail time.
Case background
The incident began 17 years ago when Rajkumar became obsessed with his wife's sister Bulo Kumari. He pressured her to marry him and even threatened his father-in-law Narayan Mandal, insisting that only Narayan agreed to arrange the marriage of Rajkumar and Bulo , he would keep his wife Guho Devi. In response, Narayan hastily arranged for Blow to marry another suitor, which took place in 2007. Escaped with Buloh Kumari.
The case was opened at Sanoka Police Station
The legal battle started when Narayan Mandal, a resident of Sanohar police station area, lodged a complaint against his son-in-law Rajkumar. Initially, the police department refused to register the case, prompting Narayan to approach the court. The court intervened and directed the police to take up the case. Narayan then filed a complaint against Rajkumar and his entire family. After investigation, the police submitted a charge sheet. Unexpectedly, the judge made a unique order regarding the punishment, which surprised many.
Court orders planting of 25 saplings
After the case, the ADJ 16 court issued an unusual verdict against Rajkumar Mandal: he was required to plant 25 saplings. Additionally, Rajkumar had to obtain a certificate confirming the cultivation from the local police station and submit it to the court. The next hearing is scheduled for August 28.
The ruling was widely praised, with many seeing it as a positive step for environmental protection. Observers believe the judge's decision reflects growing awareness of the importance of environmental protection and could serve as a model for integrating ecological considerations into legal decisions.
