Chennai Court Sentences Three Bawaria Gang Members to Life Imprisonment for Murder of AIADMK MLA K Sudarsanam

A Chennai court has sentenced three members of the Bawaria gang to life imprisonment for the murder of AIADMK MLA K Sudarsanam in 2005. The case involved a violent home invasion and highlights ongoing issues with organised crime.

Three members of the infamous Bawaria gang received life sentences on Monday for their involvement in the murder of AIADMK legislator K Sudarsanam and a related dacoity case. Sudarsanam, who was the MLA for Gummidipoondi in Thiruvallur district and served as Minister for Backward Classes Welfare, was killed during a home invasion on January 9, 2005.

The incident occurred at 2.45 am when a five-member gang broke into Sudarsanam's residence in Thanakulam near Periyapalayam. They shot him dead, assaulted his wife and sons, and stole 62 sovereigns of gold jewellery. Following this, then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa directed special police teams led by IGP S R Jangid to apprehend the culprits.

Arrests and Investigation

In March of that year, police arrested the Bawaria robbers from Haryana and Rajasthan based on a tip-off. By September, two main suspects were shot and fatally injured in a northern state encounter. Among those arrested, Om Prakash and Boora died from illness while serving life sentences in Vellore jail. Three women granted bail later absconded.

The case against four remaining accused—Jagadish, Rakesh, Ashok, and Jaildar Singh—was heard by the Chennai Additional Sessions Court. The court examined about 86 witnesses during the trial. After thorough investigations concluded, the judge delivered the verdict on November 21 against these individuals.

Judgement and Sentencing

Jagadish, Rakesh, and Ashok were found guilty of their crimes. Judge Abraham Lincoln announced their punishment today. The sentencing marks a significant development in this long-standing case that has seen various twists over the years.

The court proceedings have been closely monitored due to the high-profile nature of the case involving a prominent political figure. The verdict brings some closure to a case that has spanned nearly two decades since the tragic events unfolded.

With inputs from PTI