Kerala Court Awards Life Sentence To Convict In Dr Vandana Das Murder Case

Sri. P.N Vinod, Additional Sessions Judge - I, Kollam found the accused guilty of multiple offences, including murder under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), attempt to murder, grievous hurt, and offences under the Kerala Healthcare Service Persons and Healthcare Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property) Act, 2012.

According to the prosecution, the incident occurred in the early hours of May 10, 2023, at the Taluk Hospital, Kottarakkara. The accused, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, was brought to the hospital by police for treatment of injuries.

While in the casualty ward, he allegedly took a surgical scissors from the procedure room and launched a violent attack on bystanders, police personnel, and hospital staff. He ultimately repeatedly stabbed Dr. Vandana Das, a house surgeon, causing fatal injuries.

The defence had argued that the accused was of unsound mind and sought protection under Section 84 IPC. However, the court rejected this plea after evaluating extensive oral and documentary evidence, including testimonies from 70 prosecution witnesses.

The Court has sentenced the accused to life imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh for the murder of Dr. Vandana Das. In addition, he received, 10 years rigorous imprisonment and fine of ₹50,000 for attempt to murder, 10 years rigorous imprisonment and fine ₹25,000 for causing grievous hurt.

Various shorter terms for causing injuries to multiple victims, including police personnel and hospital staff were also awarded. The Court has also sentenced him to five years imprisonment and fine of ₹50,000 under the Kerala Healthcare Violence Act.

It was directed that the life sentence under Section 302 of IPC will commence only after the completion of the term sentences.

The accused was acquitted of charges under Sections 506(ii) (criminal intimidation) and 353 (assault to deter public servant) IPC, while being convicted on the remaining counts.

The court also found that the accused attempted to destroy evidence by washing the weapon after the attack.

The court directed that the fine amount for the murder conviction be paid as compensation to the victim's family. A portion of fines in other convictions be paid to injured victims.

Material objects used in the crime will be disposed of after the appeal period, and personal belongings of the deceased will be returned to her family.

Case Title: State of Kerala v Sandeep.G

Case No: SC. No. 1275/ 2023