1. - These two appeals are preferred to challenge the judgment and order dated 1.5.2003 passed by learned Additional Sessions Judge (Fast Track), Churu convicting the accused appellants for the offence punishable under Section 302/34 IPC. The trial court after recording the conviction aforesaid, sentenced the appellants to undergo rigorous imprisonment for life term with a fine of Rs. 500/- and in default to payment of the same further to undergo three months' simple imprisonment.

2. As per the prosecution, on 13.6.2002 at 11:30 PM, the Station House Officer of Police Station Kotwali, Churu recorded 'parcha bayan' (Ex.P/12) of Shri Noratmal son of Ramlal stating therein that at about 10:00 PM of the same day when he alongwith Salim, resident of Rajaldesar was sitting at the stairs of Shyam Hall, Vinod son of Surajbhan Brahman and Paharia son of Dungar Bhaat came with knives and then Vinod put him down and gave a knife blow on his chest. Paharia gave a knife blow at the thigh of his left leg. A knife blow was again given by Vinod at his back. On gathering of nearby persons, including the cinema employees, the assailants ran away from the spot. Noratmal further stated that Vi