Death in Katigorah Gang Attack: One Gets 8 Years, Eight Others Jailed for 3 Months After 16-Year Trial

Sixteen years after a deadly gang assault in Katigorah that led to one death and several injuries, the Fast Track Court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Bankim Sharma in Cachar has delivered its verdict. One accused has been sentenced to 8 years in prison, while eight others have been handed three-month jail terms each.

The incident occurred on August 26, 2009, in Nij Katigorah Part III. According to the prosecution, Sharif Uddin Barbhuiya (52) and a group of eight others forcefully entered the home of their neighbour, Sahir Ahmed Barbhuiya, and launched a violent attack with weapons and sticks. Three family members — Mokbul Ahmed, Mamon Ahmed, and Faruk Ahmed — sustained serious injuries. When neighbours Nur Ahmed, Abdul Kuddus, and Abdul Salam tried to intervene, they too were assaulted.

In his FIR filed at Katigorah Police Station, Sahir Ahmed alleged that the attackers also looted Rs. 20,000 in cash and gold ornaments from the house. Later, one of the injured, Abdul Kuddus, succumbed to his injuries.

After a prolonged legal battle spanning nearly 16 years, the court on Monday found Sharif Uddin Barbhuiya guilty under Section 304 (Part II) of the Indian Penal Code for culpable homicide not amounting to murder. He was sentenced to 8 years in prison and fined Rs. 10,000. In the event of default, he will be required to serve an additional 6 months.

The eight others — Badrul Islam Barbhuiya, Moklisur Rahman Barbhuiya, Sahin Uddin Barbhuiya, Mohiuddin Barbhuiya, Manik Uddin Barbhuiya, Dilwar Hussain Barbhuiya alias Mithu, Mustak Ahmed, and Sab Uddin Barbhuiya — were found guilty under IPC Sections 323, 447, and 147 for assault, criminal trespass, and rioting. Each has been sentenced to 3 months in prison for each offence, along with fines of Rs. 1,000 per charge. All sentences will run concurrently. If the fines are not paid, they will have to serve an additional month per offence.

Advocate P.K. Patoa appeared for the prosecution, while N.N. Thakur and Y.A. Barbhuiya represented the defence.