In Brief
Eleven appellants were convicted of kidnapping three victims on 20 November 2006 for ransom under Sections 364A, 34, 395 and 412 IPC. The trial court sentenced two to death; the High Court commuted these and imposed 20 years rigorous imprisonment on all. The Supreme Court upheld the convictions and sentences, holding that victim identification in Court, TIP evidence, mobile forensic records, and recovery of stolen items proved the kidnapping and demand for ransom beyond doubt. The demand for ransom was established through the victim's written letter, telephone conversations, and forensic evidence, not requiring formal proof or actual payment. Common intention was inferred from the organised, multi-role participation of all accused. Modification of life sentences to 20 years was permissible as a reduction, not enhancement.
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