The families of the 45 victims of the Thekkady boat tragedy continue to wait for justice, as the trial proceedings have faced significant delays over the past 16 years. The trial began in December 2024 at the fourth additional sessions court in Thodupuzha, and a few witnesses were examined initially. However, proceedings have since lagged due to multiple reasons.
Background of the Tragedy
On September 30, 2009, the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation's tourist boat Jalakanyaka sank near Manakkavala in Thekkady Lake, located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The victims included 23 women and seven children.
Trial Progress and Challenges
The case involves 309 witnesses under two chargesheets — A and B. So far, only 84 witnesses have been examined, and 81 documents have been submitted before the court. Several witnesses are from north Indian states, which has added to the logistical difficulties in completing the trial. Some witnesses have died over the years, while others have been unable to appear in court due to age-related illnesses. To address this, the court has initiated measures to record the statements of those unable to attend in person through video conferencing.
Investigation Findings
The state crime branch, led by Kottayam SP P A Valsan, conducted the investigation. Its probe concluded that the accident was caused by overloading of passengers on a technically defective boat and negligent handling of the vessel. Special public prosecutor E A Rahim stated that the investigation also found that KTDC supervisors, drivers, and helpers routinely accepted money to allow excess passengers on board and shared the additional income among themselves, allegedly with the tacit approval of senior officials.
Judicial Commission Report
The government also appointed a judicial commission headed by retired district judge Maideen Kunju. The commission submitted its report to former chief minister Oommen Chandy on August 25, 2011.
Survivor Testimonies
During the hearing, six survivors from Tamil Nadu, New Delhi, and Haryana told the court that Jalakanyaka was not constructed in a manner suitable for safe water transport. Additional seats were allegedly fixed to accommodate more tourists. They also reported that passengers were not provided with life jackets or other safety equipment, and that the boat driver lacked the required practical experience and qualifications.
