Court lets off drunk driver after day-long detention

A Delhi court has set free a man who was sentenced to two-day imprisonment for drunk driving. The court alternatively imposed a day-long detention in courtroom observing he was sole breadwinner of his family

A Delhi court has set free a man who was sentenced to two-day imprisonment for drunk driving. The court alternatively imposed a day-long detention in courtroom observing he was sole breadwinner of his family.

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Additional Sessions Judge Sarita Birbal noted the accused was a first-time offender caught driving in an inebriated condition. The court let off Sunil Kumar, a resident of Indraprastha Extension, after imposing a day-long detention in the courtroom along with a fine of Rs 2,200.

The court said, "Having regard to the facts and circumstances of the case, I am of the opinion that interest of justice would be served if the appellant is sentenced to TRC (to remain standing in the court till its raising)."

Kumar prayed for a lenient view, saying he is 43 years old and is employed with a private firm. He said if jailed he would lose his job while he is the sole breadwinner for his family, having his wife and two minor children.

Kumar was sentenced to two-day imprisonment and a fine for drunk driving by a metropolitan magistrate in January 2011 after he pleaded guilty. He had also failed to produce his driving licence and insurance certificate.