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Singapore : In a harrowing case that shook Singapore, M Krishnan, an Indian-origin man, has been sentenced to 20 years in jail for culpable homicide not amounting to murder after fatally assaulting his girlfriend, Mallika Begum Rahamansa Abdul Rahman, in January 2019. The High Court’s decision came after Krishnan pleaded guilty last week, admitting to his role in the tragic incident.
The court heard that Krishnan, 40, assaulted Mallika in a fit of rage after she confessed to having relationships with other men. The assault, which occurred during a heated argument, resulted in Mallika sustaining severe injuries, including a head injury and multiple fractures. Despite Krishnan’s attempts to seek medical assistance after Mallika became unresponsive, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Justice Valerie Thean, presiding over the case, highlighted the aggravating circumstances surrounding the assault, including Krishnan’s history of domestic abuse and his knowledge of being susceptible to impulsive anger outbursts. The court noted that Krishnan’s actions were influenced by alcohol intoxication, exacerbating the severity of the violence inflicted on Mallika.
During the trial, Deputy Public Prosecutor Timotheus Koh presented evidence detailing the extent of Mallika’s injuries and Krishnan’s culpability. The prosecution sought a sentence of 15 to 18 years in jail, emphasizing the need to send a clear message that such acts of violence would not be tolerated by the courts.
While Krishnan was diagnosed with intermittent explosive disorder following his arrest, the court recognized that alcohol intoxication played a significant role in exacerbating his violent behavior. Moreover, Krishnan’s previous encounters with law enforcement revealed a pattern of socially unacceptable behavior linked to alcohol consumption.
