Drunkard’s Gaushala Sentence: Community Service Replaces Fine
A Chandigarh court delivered an unusual verdict on Thursday, July 31, 2025. Roshan Lal, found guilty of creating a public disturbance while intoxicated, will serve four days of community service instead of paying a fine.
The court’s order mandates two hours of daily work at the Sector 45 gaushala (cow shelter). Lal must report his progress to the investigating officer.
This unique punishment raises questions about the efficacy of alternative sentencing in addressing public intoxication. Will this approach deter similar offences, or does it merely offer a lenient alternative to traditional fines?
The case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding sentencing practices in India and the search for more effective methods of dealing with minor offences. The impact of this decision on future cases remains to be seen, and its implications for community service initiatives deserve further scrutiny.
