Kochi: A poignant moment unfolded as a father, currently serving a jail term in an attempted murder case, was granted parole to witness his daughter’s enrollment as an advocate. Abdul Muneer, a resident of Hajiyarappally in Malappuram, received a five-day parole from the High Court to attend the enrollment ceremony of his daughter, Fathima Hemna.
Muneer is incarcerated in Thavanur Central Jail, serving a six-year sentence for an attempted murder. His initial attempts to secure permission from jail authorities to witness his daughter’s significant achievement were unsuccessful. Consequently, he petitioned the High Court.
Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan, while considering the plea, granted parole with a thoughtful observation in his judgment: “Although he is a criminal in the eyes of society, a father is a hero to any child.” This judicial remark underscored the emotional significance of the occasion for both father and daughter.
The case that led to Muneer’s conviction dates back to January 16, 2001, when he, along with three other former NDF activists, was found guilty of attempting to murder CITU leader Shamsudheen Punnakkal in Manjeri. The trial court had initially sentenced him to six years in prison. Although the High Court later reduced this sentence to one month, the Supreme Court, following an appeal by the government, reinstated the original six-year prison term. The Supreme Court’s order came 24 years after the incident.
Fathima Hemna expressed her joy and commitment to her chosen path, stating that becoming a lawyer was her lifelong ambition and that she intends to practice in the appropriate court. She completed her legal studies at Kannur University School of Legal Studies. Fathima also made a heartfelt request for privacy, emphasizing that her father’s 24-year long legal battles were not the sole inspiration behind her decision to pursue the legal profession, and that her past should not be scrutinized.
For Abdul Muneer, who is scheduled to return to jail on October 14, the cherished image of his daughter, adorned in her advocate’s coat and gown, receiving her certificate, will undoubtedly serve as a lasting memory. The enrollment ceremony, organized by the Bar Council yesterday, saw 1000 law graduates, including employees from various courts, officially enrolled as advocates. Another 750 individuals are expected to be sworn in today.