Maharashtra Man Convicted for Assault on Homeguard Released

A court in Maharashtra's Thane district has convicted a 38-year-old man, Maruti Jagiram Atram, for assaulting an on-duty lady Homeguard but sentenced him only to time already served, citing his extreme poverty and ignorance. The conviction was handed down by District Judge P R Ashturkar under section 353 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with assault or criminal force used to deter a public servant from discharging their duty.

The incident dates back to October 26, 2023, when Atram boarded the ladies' compartment of a Kasara-bound local train. Homeguard Neerja Arvind Mukadam, who was on duty at the time, confronted him, prompting him to assault her. Atram was subsequently arrested the following day.

Judge Ashturkar took into account Atram's financial status and his inability to understand legal proceedings. "The accused is very poor," the judge noted, adding that Atram did not understand the basic legal requirement of engaging a lawyer. Despite being given an opportunity to reconsider, Atram maintained his guilty plea, expressing a desire not to extend his trial after being incarcerated for a significant period.

In delivering the sentence, Judge Ashturkar highlighted the necessity for compassion due to Atram's circumstances. "It is necessary to keep in mind that the applicant, due to his poverty, ignorance, and illiteracy, could not even seek bail for almost two years. This circumstance requires a humanitarian and lenient view," the judge remarked.

Atram has been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for the period he has already served in jail, amounting to one year, seven months, and eight days. The court has directed the jail authorities to release him immediately.