‘She was beaten, kicked and stomped’: Indian-born man sentenced to life in prison for brutal murder of girlfriend

A 50-year-old man received one life imprisonment with a minimum sentence of 21 years for the murder of his girlfriend at her home in the East Midlands. Raj Sidpara was convicted Leicester Crown Court for the murder of 44-year-old Tarnjeet Riaz, also known as Tarnjeet Chagger.
The murder took place on May 6 at Sidpara’s house on Tarbat Road. After Sidpara called them, emergency responders found Riaz unresponsive with severe facial trauma and multiple broken ribs.
Sidpara initially admitted manslaughter in October, claiming he caused the injuries but did not intend to kill Riaz. However, the court found him guilty of murder after evidence of a sustained and brutal attack. Judge William Harbage told Sidpara: “It is clear that you attacked her in a brutal and merciless manner; They punched, kicked and kicked her in a sustained attack.”
The court revealed Sidpara had a history of violence, including 24 previous convictions for 46 offences, some of which included threats and harassment against former partners. He was also diagnosed with alcohol dependence syndrome.
Commenting on the case, Detective Inspector Emma Matts said: “Tarnjeet was killed at the hands of someone with whom she had a relationship. Someone who should have supported and protected her, not someone who she should have feared would brutally attack her.” She stressed the importance of victims of domestic violence seeking help and support.
The sentencing coincided with Leicestershire Police’s participation in White Ribbon Day, a campaign focused on ending violence against women and girls.