Actress Assault Case: Accused Make Emotional Pleas in Court Ahead of Sentencing

Kochi: Ahead of the much-anticipated pronouncement of the sentence in the sensational actress assault case, arguments commenced in the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court, witnessing emotional pleas and dramatic interventions from the accused. The atmosphere in the courtroom was charged as the first accused, Pulsar Suni, addressed the court, stating that he only has his elderly mother at home, implicitly appealing for leniency.

Second accused, Martin, broke down in tears as he vehemently denied his involvement, asserting his innocence. He pleaded with the court, highlighting that he had already spent five and a half years in jail for a crime he claims he did not commit. Martin further emphasized his clean record, stating he had no prior petty cases against him, and spoke of his ailing parents, underscoring his family’s dependence on him.

Third accused, Manikandan, echoed similar sentiments of innocence, explaining that he had not conspired with the other accused and had not knowingly participated in any wrongdoing. He sought the court’s compassion for himself, his wife, and their two children, whom he supports as their sole breadwinner.

Fourth accused, Vijeesh, identified his native place as Thalassery and made a specific request to be transferred to Kannur jail if sentenced. Fifth accused, Salim, also maintained his innocence, mentioning his wife and one-year-old daughter. The sixth accused, Pradeep, was visibly emotional and cried in court during his turn to speak.

The proceedings were marked by a stern warning from Judge Honey M. Varghese. Addressing both the media and lawyers present, the judge firmly stated, “Investigate my past and future, but maintain discipline within the court.” This directive came amidst dramatic scenes unfolding in the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court, reflecting the intense scrutiny and public interest surrounding the case.

The judge’s warning follows a period of significant controversy and criticism that erupted after the court verdict on December 8. Judge Honey M. Varghese had been subjected to personal attacks and cyberattacks on various platforms. Public outrage also manifested in protest gatherings, notably at Manaveeyam Veedhi, where calls for justice for the survivor resonated loudly. The judge’s personal life had also become a subject of online campaigns, adding another layer of complexity to the already sensitive legal proceedings. The ongoing arguments before sentencing are a crucial phase, as the court weighs the appeals of the accused against the severity of the crime and the pursuit of justice for the victim in a case that has deeply impacted public consciousness in Kerala.