Chennithala assures justice in Kochi crash involving judge's minor son

Ramesh Chennithala met Jayabalakrishnan's family and promised firm action in the fatal Kochi crash case. The government pledged impartial investigation, strong prosecution and equal treatment regardless of status.

In Short

• Accident on October 25 killed 55-year-old scooter rider Jayabalakrishnan in Kochi
• Police-station bail for the 17-year-old sparked protests and conspiracy allegations
• Juvenile Justice Board later granted bail after additional charges were invoked

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Saturday met the family of Jayabalakrishnan, who was killed after a Mercedes-Benz allegedly driven by the minor son of an Additional District and Sessions Judge hit his scooter, and assured them that justice would be ensured regardless of the accused's social or financial position, news agency Press Trust of India reported.

The accident occurred in Kochi on October 25, killing 55-year-old Jayabalakrishnan. His family alleged a conspiracy to derail the case after the 17-year-old accused was initially granted bail at the police station, prompting protests and questions over accountability.

The minor was later taken into custody after additional charges were invoked but was subsequently granted bail by the Juvenile Justice Board. His father, the judge, was also named as an accused in the case. However, the Kerala High Court directed the police not to arrest him.

Chennithala visited Jayabalakrishnan's home in Kochi in the morning with Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden, MLA T J Vinod and Kochi City Police Commissioner R Nishanthini. After interacting with the family, he told reporters that they were satisfied with the investigation and that the government was committed to ensuring justice, according to PTI.

"The investigation is proceeding in the right direction. The government is fully committed to this matter. The chief minister visited the family on Friday, and I have come here today. The entire government stands with the family," Chennithala said.

He said ensuring justice for ordinary people was the government's responsibility and that the law would make no distinction between the rich and the poor. "This is a poor family. Naturally, they may have difficulties and apprehensions when the accused's father is a judge. I assure them that we will stand with them 100 per cent to ensure justice. There should be no doubt about it. Justice and law are equal for everyone, whether it is a judge or an ordinary citizen," he said.

The minister said further proceedings involved matters before the court and that the prosecution would take strong steps to ensure justice. He added that a Special Public Prosecutor would be appointed according to the family's choice. "Strong action will be taken from the prosecution's side in the further proceedings. We are taking special care to ensure that there are no lapses," he said.

Chennithala said he would fulfil his responsibility as Home Minister to ensure that the law was applied equally to everyone. He also said most road accidents occurred because of drunken driving and warned that strict action would be taken against those driving under the influence of alcohol to protect others.

Jayabalakrishnan's daughter Bhadrakeerthi said the family had conveyed its demands to the Home Minister and had been assured of the government's support. "We have been given assurances by both the Chief Minister and the Home Minister. We have faith in their words and are hopeful of justice," she told PTI.

The government has assured Jayabalakrishnan's family of an impartial investigation, strong prosecution and equal application of the law as court proceedings in the case continue.

- Ends