Raipur court hands death penalty to man for burning 4-year-old boy in revenge killing!

Raipur(The Uttam Hindu):A Raipur court has sentenced Panchram Gendre to death for the horrific murder of four-year-old Harsh Chetan, labeling it a "rarest of the rare" case. The crime, driven by revenge against the boy's mother, Pushpa Chetan, who had rejected Gendre's advances, marks the first death penalty in Raipur in 46 years. The court emphasized that leniency would embolden criminals and undermine the judiciary's role in upholding justice.

The incident occurred on April 5, 2022, when Pushpa reported that Gendre had taken her children, Divyansh (5) and Harsh (4), for a motorcycle ride. After Pushpa intervened, Divyansh returned home, but Harsh insisted on another ride. Gendre, executing his vengeful plan, bought petrol and set Harsh on fire in a secluded area between Nevnara and Akolikhar villages.

During interrogation, Gendre admitted that his actions were fueled by anger at Pushpa for ignoring him. He lured Harsh to a deserted spot, wrapped him in a towel, poured petrol on him, and set him ablaze before fleeing to Nagpur. He was apprehended two days later through police efforts, which involved tracking his mother’s mobile phone.

The investigation was led by DSP Suresh Kumar Dhruw and SHO Bharatlal Barteh, with Additional Public Prosecutors Rajendra Jain and Pareshwar Bagh representing the state. Harsh's father, Jayendra Chetan, expressed his anguish, recalling how Gendre had previously shown kindness to their children. The family, now back in their village in Janjgir-Champa, continues to grapple with emotional and financial struggles following the tragedy.

Gendre’s criminal history includes a previous conviction for arson at a school. The court's verdict serves as a strong message against heinous crimes, reinforcing the importance of justice for victims and their families in Raipur’s judicial history.