Man jailed for killing partner

A Leicester man convicted of killing his partner has been jailed been for at least 21 years.

Raj Sidpara was convicted last week of the murder of Tarnjeet Riaz, also known as Tarnjeet Chagger, following a trial at Leicester Crown Court.

Tarnjeet was found with extensive trauma to her face, as well as multiple broken ribs, when she was found unresponsive at the home address of Sidpara.

By the time emergency services were called to the home in Tarbat Road, Thurnby Lodge, on the afternoon of Monday 6 May, Tarnjeet was already dead.

The couple had been in a relationship for around five months.

In October, Sidpara admitted causing the injuries but denied intending to kill Tarnjeet or cause her serious harm.

Today (Friday 29 November) he was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years.

His sentencing comes as Leicestershire Police joins organisations across the global to support ‘White Ribbon Day’ and the 16 days of action.

The campaign is working to prevent violence against women and girls with this year’s focus being on working to challenge men’s attitudes and behaviours towards women.

Detective Inspector Emma Matts, senior investigating officer, said: “Tarnjeet was killed at the hands of someone she was in a relationship with. Someone who should have supported and protected her, not someone she should have feared would brutally attack her.

“While the person responsible will now spend many years behind bars, Tarnjeet’s family are left with so many questions and the overwhelming feeling of wondering if they could have done more.

“We know domestic abuse is very complex. Often victims don’t want to share with family and friends the details of what is happening behind closed doors, let alone with police, but it is vital anyone suffering gets the support they need to put a stop to the abuse before it is too late.

“We have a dedicated team who specialise in dealing with cases of domestic abuse and while we would encourage people to report to police, there are also many local and national support services who can also help.”

Find out more about how to report domestic abuse to police to where to access further support and information.

Anyone in danger but unable to speak to police can also dial 999 and press 55 when prompted

Read more about the case and the tribute to Tarnjeet from her brother Balraj Chagger.