UP court sentences notorious gangster to three years in prison

In a recent development, the court in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut district has sentenced gangster Udham Singh Karnawal to three years’ imprisonment and fined him Rs 1000. Karnawal, with a history of over 70 cases, including loot, murder, extortion, and kidnapping, was convicted in a case involving the recovery of a pistol and cartridges from his possession.

Presently held in Unnao jail, Karnawal has also faced charges under the Gangster Act and NSA in various police stations across Meerut, Ghaziabad, Shamli, Baghpat, Muzaffarnagar, and Lucknow. His sentencing comes as part of the police’s ongoing special drive against mafias, gangsters, and their associates, which has seen 22 mafias and 42 gang members and supporters punished so far, with more cases being pursued in courts statewide.

The court’s decision to convict Karnawal, one of the 68 identified criminals in the state, follows a strong chargesheet presented by the police and effective legal representation ensuring due punishment. With two individuals receiving capital punishment and others facing life imprisonment or rigorous imprisonment along with fines, the crackdown on criminal elements aims to curb organized crime and bring perpetrators to justice. Among those already sentenced are notable figures such as Mukhtar Ansari, Vijay Mishra, and Atiq Ahmad.

Efforts to tackle criminal networks and ensure public safety have been emphasized by authorities, with continued vigilance against mafia activities and those aiding and abetting criminal behavior. As the legal process unfolds, the prosecution of individuals like Karnawal serves as a warning to others involved in illicit activities that the law will not hesitate to hold them accountable for their actions.–IANS

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