High Court Sentences Six To Life Imprisonment In Binod Shahi M*rder Case

The High Court Dipayal on Tuesday sentenced six individuals, including Nepali Congress municipal president Sajjan Shahi, to life imprisonment for the M*rder of 16-year-old Binod Shahi of Panchdebal Binayak Municipality. The verdict, delivered in Dhangadhi, overturned an earlier acquittal by the Achham District Court and found the defendants guilty in a case that originated from violence during the 2022 local elections, ultimately leading to the teenager's de@th.

The case was heard by a division bench led by Chief Judge Dinesh Prasad Yadav and Judge Poonam Singh Chand, which set aside the earlier district court verdict and found Sajjan Shahi, Mahendra Shahi, Birendra Shahi, Devendra Shahi, Prithvi Shahi, and Akkal Shahi guilty.

According to court officials, each of the convicted individuals has been sentenced to life imprisonment and ordered to pay Rs 1 lakh in compensation to the victim's family.

### Background Of The Case

The incident dates back to May 13, 2022 (Baisakh 30, 2079), the day Nepal held local elections. Tensions reportedly escalated in Panchdebal Binayak Municipality following a dispute between supporters of the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML.

After clashes broke out between political activists, Binod Shahi went missing. Weeks later, on June 4, 2022 (Jestha 21, 2079), his body was discovered in a forest near his home, triggering widespread public outrage and demands for justice.

The victim's family filed a complaint naming 13 individuals, including then-Mayor Ambika Chalune, alleging involvement in the incident. However, prosecutors later decided not to pursue charges against several of those named in the complaint, including the mayor.

### District Court Acquittal Overturned

The case initially resulted in a major setback for the victim's family when the Achham District Court acquitted all defendants on Mangsir 4, 2082.

That decision was challenged in the higher court, leading to a fresh review of the evidence and legal arguments. After examining the case, the High Court concluded that six of the accused were guilty and overturned the lower court's verdict.

At the same time, the court upheld the acquittal of four other defendants: Panmati Bam Shahi, Draupati Shahi, Karnabahadur Shahi, and Shanti Kumari Shahi.

### Why The Verdict Matters

The ruling marks a significant development in one of Sudurpashchim Province's most closely watched criminal cases. The case drew national attention because of its links to local election violence, allegations involving political figures, and concerns raised by the victim's family over the initial investigation and prosecution process.

For Binod Shahi’s family, the ruling marks an important moment in their long fight for justice. It also shows how a higher court can review a lower court’s decision when serious doubts remain in a criminal case.

With the High Court now imposing life sentences on six defendants, the case has entered a new chapter, although further legal appeals remain possible under Nepal's judicial system.