The principle that even if a hundred criminals go free, not a single innocent person should be punished is a fundamental part of the Indian judicial system. However, a man from Uttar Pradesh had to endure punishment for a crime he did not commit. He suffered under this false accusation not just for a few years, but for 26 long years. Finally, he was acquitted recently. However, his life was spent climbing the steps of police stations and courtrooms.
Salim Rajput, who was 20 years old at the time, was on his way to work in Muzaffarnagar on July 25, 1999, when three policemen stopped and arrested him for allegedly possessing stolen goods. Salim was shocked by this accusation. However, due to his extreme poverty, he could not secure bail. After spending two months in jail, he was finally granted bail. Since then, his case has dragged on for 26 years, and he has appeared in more than 200 court hearings.
Salim’s trial concluded on February 4, when the Chief Magistrate acquitted him due to a lack of evidence.
Salim Rajput is now 50 years old. Although the verdict has brought him some relief, it has cost him a lifetime of opportunities. According to a report by The Times of India, Salim stated that he is not even able to express happiness over the verdict. “This false case has ruined my life. My income was wiped out. My children were deprived of an education. I spent countless years in court.”
He further said, “My family is in deep shock. I was newly married when I was arrested. Now, I have four children.”
