Decrying political murders, the Kerala High Court on Tuesday observed that the theory of annihilation of political opponents has no space in a civilised society.
Justice Sunil Thomas made the observation while dismissing the bail petitions filed by four accused in a case relating to the murder of a Youth Congress worker in Kannur on February 12, 2018.
The court also observed that Youth Congress leader S.P. Shuhaib, 29, of Mattannur was executed by ‘professional killers’.
The bail petitions were filed by Akash A.P of Thillenkeri, Ranji Raj of Karuvallil, Jithin K. of Muzhakkunnu and Deep Chant C.S. of Kakkayamchal, all accused in the case.
The court noted that records indicated that it was “an extremely diabolic and heinous way of murdering the political opponent using country bomb and swords”. The crime was committed with meticulous details and executed with the aid of professional killers. It was a retaliation against an earlier political attack, the court added.
The court pointed out that the petitioners had direct involvement in the actual commission of the offence and if they were granted bail, there was every possibility of their threatening the witnesses and repeating crimes. Peace and tranquillity should prevail in the area. Therefore, it demanded dismissal of the bail petitions.
The prosecution submitted that the investigation was complete and final report filed. It was awaiting trial. The postmortem report had stated that Shuhaib sustained 29 incised deep cut injuries with sharp edges. There were injuries on various parts of his body. All the major blood veins on his leg were cut.
The petitioners submitted that they had long been in custody and no purpose would be served by keeping them in continued detention.