Kannada Actress Abhinaya Gets 2-Year Jail Sentence for Dowry Harassment
The Karnataka High Court has sentenced Kannada actress Abhinaya, her mother Jayamma, and her brother Cheluvaraj in a dowry harassment case. The court confirmed a two-year simple imprisonment for Abhinaya and her brother, while Jayamma received a five-year sentence under the Dowry Prohibition Act.
Case Background
The case was filed in Bengaluru in 2002 under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). According to the complaint, Abhinaya’s brother, Srinivas, married Lakshmidevi in March 1998. Before the wedding, Srinivas’ family allegedly took ₹80,000 and gold ornaments as dowry. Later, they pressured Lakshmidevi to bring an additional ₹1 lakh, subjecting her to cruelty and harassment.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
In 2010, a trial court found Abhinaya, her mother, and her brothers guilty. The court sentenced Abhinaya and Cheluvaraj to two years in jail, while Jayamma received a six-month sentence. The state appealed for a stricter punishment, while the accused sought acquittal.
In 2012, a fast-track court overturned their convictions. However, the state and the complainant challenged the acquittal in the Karnataka High Court. During the appeal process, two of the accused, Srinivas and Ramakrishna, passed away.
Final Ruling by the High Court
The Karnataka High Court reviewed witness statements and upheld the conviction. The court ruled that the minimum punishment under Section 3 of the Dowry Prohibition Act must be applied. As a result, Abhinaya and Cheluvaraj were sentenced to two years in jail, while Jayamma’s sentence was increased to five years.
This ruling highlights the strict legal stance against dowry harassment, reinforcing the consequences for those found guilty.
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