Patna High Court acquits 13 accused in 1996 Jehanabad quadruple murder case

The Patna High Court set aside a trial court's conviction order and acquitted 13 appellants in connection with a 1996 quadruple murder case. The case originated from an attack that occurred during the night of August 8-9, 1996, in the Karpi area of Jehanabad, which is now part of Arwal district in Bihar.

According to reports, a large armed group stormed a hut near a water body where villagers were guarding irrigation supplies. The violent incident resulted in the deaths of four individuals and caused injuries to others. An initial First Information Report was filed against unknown persons before subsequent proceedings implicated residents from a neighbouring area.

A lower court had previously convicted the 13 appellants in April 2023, sentencing them to rigorous imprisonment for life under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act. However, the High Court identified significant flaws in the prosecution and police handling of the case, leading to the decision to overturn the convictions and order the immediate release of the appellants.

Following the ruling, the High Court criticised the quality of the initial police investigation and directed the Director General of Police in Bihar to form a three-member committee to probe the negligence of the investigating officers. The Home Department was also instructed to review its policies regarding acquittals caused by investigative failures.

Not yet reported: The articles do not mention whether any alternative suspects were pursued by the authorities following the acquittal.