Kochi Judge's Son Fatal Crash: Case Upgraded to Culpable Homicide
A 17-year-old son of an Additional District Judge is in custody after a fatal crash in Kochi. Case upgraded to culpable homicide.
A tragic road accident in Cheranalloor, Kochi, has taken a serious legal turn. The District Crime Branch (DCB) conducted a late-night evidence collection raid on Tuesday following a collision involving a luxury car allegedly driven by the 17-year-old son of an Additional District Judge, which resulted in the death of a 55-year-old man.
The Fatal Collision
The incident occurred early in the morning when a luxury car allegedly rammed into a scooter from behind. The scooter rider, identified as Jayabalakrishnan, a resident of Manjali, was rushed to the hospital by police teams who arrived shortly after the crash. Despite medical efforts, Jayabalakrishnan succumbed to his injuries. He is described as the primary breadwinner for his family, having been working late into the night before the accident occurred.
From Negligence to Culpable Homicide
Kochi City Police Commissioner Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar revealed that the legal nature of the case has shifted significantly as the investigation progressed. Initially, based on the first information statement (FIS), the police registered the case under provisions relating to death caused by negligence.
However, as new evidence surfaced, the charges were upgraded. "During the investigation, evidence emerged indicating that the vehicle was overspeeding," Commissioner Kumar stated. Consequently, the case has been altered to Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to culpable homicide.
Legal Implications for the Judge
The luxury vehicle involved in the crash is registered in the name of the teenager's father, who serves as an Additional District Judge. This has brought the Motor Vehicles Act into play, which allows for action against the guardian or registered owner when a juvenile causes an accident.
The Commissioner confirmed that the relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act have been invoked against the father. He further noted that because the registered owner is a member of the judiciary, specific legal procedures are being followed to facilitate further action.
Juvenile Justice and Police Action
The 17-year-old accused has been taken into police custody. Following the protocols mandated by the Juvenile Justice rules, the teenager was produced before the concerned Juvenile Justice Board. While preliminary police reports indicate that the juvenile was not under the influence of alcohol, blood samples have been collected for detailed forensic analysis.
Public Outcry and Family Grief
The accident has sparked significant public anger, leading to protests by both BJP and CPI(M) workers outside the Cheranalloor Police Station. Protesters have demanded strict action against the judge for his role as the vehicle's owner.
The victim's daughter, Bhadrakeerthi, mentioned that high-ranking officials, including the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), visited their home to record statements. She also noted that four police personnel have been suspended, though the specific reasons for these suspensions are yet to be officially clarified.
"This is an emotional moment. We fully support the family, as they have lost their breadwinner... We will take all necessary action to ensure that those responsible and found culpable are brought to justice," said Commissioner Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar.