Mohali: A Mohali court has acquitted gangster Sukhpreet Singh alias Budha in a case involving alleged death threats to a religious leader, holding that the prosecution failed to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt.Additional district and sessions judge Prashant Verma pronounced the verdict after observing that the prosecution could not substantiate its case despite being given multiple opportunities to lead evidence. The court also noted inconsistencies and lack of clarity in the testimonies of the investigating officer and other prosecution witnesses. Extending the benefit of the doubt to the accused, the court acquitted Budha of all charges.According to the prosecution, a religious leader had lodged a complaint with Kharar City police alleging that he received death threats over phone calls from pro-Khalistan elements and gangster Sukhpreet Budha. The complainant further alleged that an attempt was made to attack him when his vehicle was intercepted by another vehicle carrying a fake registration number and occupied by four persons.The complainant told police that he had earlier posted a message on social media urging Punjab-based gangsters to surrender before the police. He alleged that following the post, he began receiving threatening calls and messages, including death threats from foreign numbers directed at him and his family.Based on the complaint, Kharar City police registered a case against Budha under Sections 307 (attempt to murder), 116, 341 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code, along with provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).However, after examining the evidence and witness testimonies during the trial, the court concluded that the prosecution had failed to establish the allegations and acquitted the accused.
