Nagaon : In a significant verdict after nearly eight years, the Nagaon Sessions Court on Friday convicted 20 persons in the Abhi-Neel mob lynching case, sentencing them to life imprisonment and imposing a fine of Rs 20,000 on each.

The judgment was delivered by Sessions Judge Dibyajyoti Mahanta following the conclusion of the trial.

Those convicted include Biswa Ram Swargiary, Pantheng Basumatary, Alphajoz Timung, Inosen Engti, Raikom Timung, Ratneswar Terrang, Phukan Lekhte, Anos Timung, Pres Timung, Rupsing Kro, Dhono Mech, Babu Singh Kro, Bikram Hanse, Sikari Rongpi, Babu Rongpi, Bidyasing Rongpi, Mensing Kro, Dipjyoti Basumatary, Wares Rongpi, and Onda Mech.

The case, which had drawn widespread attention in Assam, pertains to the mob lynching of two youths-Abhi and Neel-triggering public outrage and demands for justice.

Following the verdict, the victims’ family expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome. Their legal counsel indicated that they may challenge the ruling before the Gauhati High Court, seeking further legal recourse.

The conviction marks a major development in one of the state’s most closely followed criminal cases, even as the possibility of an appeal keeps the legal battle ongoing.