Death sentence for two in ex-MLA's death

A judge in Tirunelveli has awarded death sentences to two people found guilty of murdering former TN law minister Aladi Aruna in 2004.

A judge in Tirunelveli has awarded death sentences to two people found guilty of murdering former TN law minister Aladi Aruna in December 2004.

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A judge in Tirunelveli on Thursday awarded death sentences to two people found guilty of murdering former Tamil Nadu law minister Aladi Aruna in December 2004.

Principal Sessions' Judge Bhasker sentenced to death Bala alias Bala Murugan and Azhagar, who were declared guilty a day ago. A third accused, Veldurai, was awarded three years' rigorous imprisonment.

There was heavy police presence in the court as the sentences were handed down. The city is located 600 km south of Chennai.

According to the prosecution, Aruna, a leading member of the ruling DMK, was murdered in Alankulam near here by hired assassins.

Local educationist SA Raja, charged with organising the killing, was acquitted Wednesday.