The New Nation - Internet Edition

Our Correspondent, Barisal

A trial Court in Barisal sentenced a father to 10 years imprisonment for beating his daughter to death for attending a marriage ceremony violating his order.

The convicted person was Ismail Hossain Howladar alias Kalu Maker, 50, of Solia Baakpur village under Banaripara Upazila of Barisal district. He was also fined Tk. 2000 in defaultto suffer another 6 months imprisonment.

Court sources said Md. Siddikul Arefin Chowdhury, First Additional District and Session Judge of Barisal handed down the verdict in presence of the accused on Sunday noon after examining 10 witnesses.

As the murder was not preplanned or intentional and done emotionally, so Section 302 of the Penal Code was not considered and punishment was given transferring the charges under Section 304.

However, family members including mother, brothers and sisters of the victim, denying the allegations against Ismail said Sonia died of injuries caused by collapsing roof of the house. The case was lodged by his arch rival, a step-brother, to grab his properties.

Prosecution story said Ismail and Anwar Howladar, two neighbours and relatives had old enmities. A marriage ceremony was held at the house of Anwar on March 10, 2004. Ismail ordered his family members to boycott the programme.

However Sonia Akter, 10, a daughter of Ismail for innocent curiosity and inquisitiveness attended the ceremony.

Sonia was rushed to Barisal SBMCH in critical condition where she succumbed to her injuries on March 13.

Serajul Huq, step-brother of Ismail, lodged a murder case in this connection with Banaripara police station on that day. Sub-Inspector Idris submitted charge sheet under Section 302 of the Penal Code against Ismail on March 31.