Guwahati, 20 April (HS): After nearly eight years of prolonged hearings, the court on Monday pronounced its final verdict in the much-discussed Abhi-Neel murder case, convicting 20 accused while acquitting 25 others due to lack of evidence. It may be mentioned that 8 years ago duo musicians Abhi and Neel had been mob linched in Karbi Anglong district.

The judgment was delivered based on extensive examination of evidence and witness testimonies over the years. The verdict is being seen as a significant milestone in the case, bringing a measure of relief to those who had been awaiting justice for a long time.

The court has fixed April 24 for the pronouncement of sentences for the convicted individuals. The punishment for each convict will be decided according to their specific roles in the crime.

Those convicted include Bishwram Swargiary, Panteng Basumatary, Alafazkroz Timung, Insent Ingti, Raykang Timung, Ratneshwar Terang, Phukan Lekthe, Ens Timung, Pres Timung, Rup Singh Kro, Dhanu Mesh, Babu Singh Kro, Bikram Hanse, Shikari Rongpi, Babu Rongpi, Bidya Singh Rongpi, Mensing Kro, Deepjyoti Basumatary, Waris Rongpi and Onoda Mesh.

All eyes are now on the next hearing, where the quantum of punishment will be announced.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash