Kerala Court Imposes Double Life Sentence in Brutal Wife Murder Case
The Alappuzha Additional Sessions Court 2 has delivered a landmark verdict on Monday, sentencing a man to double life imprisonment for the brutal murder of his wife on a public road in Kottayam district. The court's decision marks a significant moment in addressing domestic violence cases with severe judicial consequences.
Details of the Court Verdict and Sentencing
Judge S Bharathy of the Additional Sessions Court 2 pronounced the judgment against Rajesh Kumar, a 47-year-old native of Cherthala and employee of the water transport department. The court imposed:
- Life imprisonment and Rs 1 lakh fine for the murder charge
- Another life imprisonment and Rs 1 lakh fine for robbery
- Total fine of Rs 2 lakh on the convict
Additionally, the court directed the government to provide necessary financial assistance to the victim's two children under the Kerala Victim Compensation Scheme, recognizing the long-term impact on the orphaned teenagers.
Background of the Tragic Incident
The horrific crime occurred on May 18, 2024, when Ambili, a collection agent at the Thirunelloor Service Cooperative Bank, was returning home on her scooter after collecting money from local shops. Rajesh intercepted her south of the Pallippuram Pallichanda Junction, leading to a confrontation that turned deadly.
According to prosecution evidence presented by Additional Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor S A Sreemon:
- Rajesh arrived on a motorcycle and engaged in an argument with Ambili
- He stabbed her multiple times in the back and neck
- The attack continued with 17 stab wounds until Ambili collapsed
- The fatal injury severed a nerve in her neck
Despite being rushed to a nearby private hospital, medical intervention could not save Ambili's life. Following the murder, Rajesh fled with the collection money but was later apprehended by police at a bar.
Family Context and Legal Proceedings
The couple had entered into a love marriage but had been experiencing domestic disputes for some time. Due to these conflicts, Ambili had been residing at her parental home with their two children, aged 17 and 15. Police records indicate that Rajesh had previously attempted to attack Ambili, though that complaint had been resolved before the fatal incident.
The legal journey saw multiple rejections of Rajesh's bail applications at various judicial levels:
- Trial court bail petitions denied
- High court bail applications rejected
- Supreme Court also refused bail
The prosecution built its case on strong evidence including witness testimonies and scientific-medical documentation. Tragically, Ambili's father, C P Babu, who served as a key witness in the case, passed away during the trial proceedings, adding another layer of tragedy to this already devastating family story.
Broader Implications of the Judgment
This verdict sends a powerful message about the judicial system's approach to crimes against women, particularly those involving domestic relationships. The double life sentence combined with financial penalties and victim compensation demonstrates a comprehensive approach to justice that considers both punishment and rehabilitation for affected family members.
The case highlights the importance of addressing domestic disputes before they escalate to violence, while simultaneously showing that the legal system will respond with appropriate severity when such tragedies do occur. The court's directive for government assistance to the victim's children represents a recognition of the long-term consequences such crimes have on surviving family members.
