Police registered a case under Section 106 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for causing death by negligence after a 54-year-old man was killed near Cheranelloor between 2:00 and 3:00 am on Sunday. The victim, returning home from his food stall, was hit by a Mercedes-Benz allegedly driven by the teenage son of an Additional Sessions Judge. The scooter was badly damaged, and the man died on the spot.
The driver was released on bail under the Juvenile Justice Act, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism. Police confirmed the car is registered in the judge's name and said they will decide later whether to book the father. Investigations are currently underway to determine the speed of the vehicle and the exact sequence of events.
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala told reporters that the victim’s family need not worry about the course of the investigation. "It does not matter how prominent or powerful they are; they will face strict action," Chennithala said, emphasizing that killing people in road accidents will not be tolerated. He noted that authorities have already taken action against more than 14,000 people for drunken driving in recent days and are moving to revoke their licences.
The victim’s niece, who spoke to reporters, described her uncle as a hardworking man who ran a food stall to support his family. She alleged the judge spoke disrespectfully to her at the police station when she questioned why his minor son had been allowed to drive. "We will pursue the case, especially in view of the judge’s attitude," she said, adding that the incident should serve as a lesson against driving without a licence.
Police are expected to submit their next investigation report within the coming days, which will determine if charges are filed against the judge. The state government has ordered a review of all juvenile driving cases to ensure strict enforcement of traffic laws.