Kochi: The Kerala High Court has impleaded C P Muhammed, the father of deceased Youth Congress functionary S P Shuhaib, in a petition filed by the accused seeking transfer of the trial from the additional sessions court–III, Thalassery, to any other competent court. Shuhaib was allegedly hacked to death at Mattannur by a gang of CPM workers in 2018.
Court Proceedings
A bench of Justice G Gireesh, while considering the main petition filed by Akash M V alias Akash Thillankeri and other accused on Monday, allowed the impleading petition filed by Muhammed opposing the accused’s plea for transfer of trial. The accused had approached the High Court aggrieved by the manner in which the trial court conducted the chief examination of witnesses, contending that it was not in compliance with Section 280 of CrPC. This section requires the judge to record material remarks regarding the demeanour of witnesses while they are testifying.
Prosecution's Submission
The public prosecutor submitted that a connected matter challenging the trial court’s order on the accused’s petition concerning the manner in which witnesses were examined is pending before another bench. He further submitted that, in the interest of justice, both matters ought to be considered together by the same bench. Accordingly, the High Court directed its registry to place the matter before the Chief Justice for appropriate orders.
Interim Order Extended
The High Court also extended by one week the interim order staying the trial proceedings in the case and adjourned the matter to June 22. This extension provides temporary relief to the accused while the court considers the transfer petition.
Background of the Case
Shuhaib, a Youth Congress worker, was hacked to death on February 12, 2018, by a group of CPM workers while having tea with his friends at a shop at Therur near Edayannur. The brutal murder had sparked widespread outrage and political tensions in the region. The accused have maintained that the trial court’s handling of witness examination was flawed, prompting their plea for a transfer to ensure a fair trial.
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