Justice After 30 Years: Khowai Court Convicts Accused in 1996 Murder Case, Sentences Him to Life Imprisonment

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, February 25, 2026

In a significant legal development, a murder case registered nearly three decades ago at Khowai Police Station has finally reached its conclusion. The Court of the Additional District & Sessions Judge, Khowai District, on February 24, 2026, convicted the accused under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

As per official information, the accused, Ratan Debbarma, son of Lt. Parshuram Debbarma of Mudibari under Khowai Police Station, was found guilty of murdering his wife, Chabi Rani Debbarma, on September 25, 1996.

According to the prosecution, the incident occurred at around 5:00 AM at the dwelling hut of the victim’s elder sister at Mudibari, Khowai. The accused allegedly used an axe to commit the offence, leading to the death of his wife.

After a prolonged judicial process spanning almost 30 years, the court on February 24, 2026 pronounced the verdict, sentencing the accused to life imprisonment.

Recognition for Investigating Officer

In a public post on its official Facebook page, Khowai District Police congratulated Sub-Inspector Pranab Das of Khowai Police Station for his dedicated investigation in connection with the case. SI Pranab Das is currently posted as Deputy Superintendent of Police (Traffic) at the Office of the Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Agartala, Tripura.

The department acknowledged his role in ensuring that the case, registered on September 26, 1996, was pursued with diligence and professionalism, ultimately leading to conviction.

While the verdict brings long-awaited closure, it also reflects a broader national reality. Many criminal cases registered in the 1990s across Tripura are still reaching their final stages today due to prolonged judicial processes, procedural complexities, and systemic challenges.

The case is not a matter of criticism but a reminder of the continuing need to strengthen judicial infrastructure, improve case management systems, and ensure faster disposal of long-pending matters. Timely justice is essential not only for victims and their families but also for maintaining public confidence in the legal system.

After 30 years, justice has finally been delivered though the journey was long.

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