Attempted murder case filed against Kannur man for setting wife and mother-in-law ablaze
In a disturbing incident at Karivellur near Payyanur in Kannur district, the police have registered a case of attempted murder against a 46-year-old man who allegedly set his wife and mother-in-law on fire. The attack took place around 10 p.m. on Sunday at Valiyavalappil house near the Muthappan temple at Kookanam.
The accused, C.V. Sanalkumar, is accused of pouring petrol on his wife, P. Prajisha, 37, and her mother, P. Padmini, 56, before igniting it. All three suffered serious burn injuries. Sanalkumar reportedly collapsed at the scene after sustaining around 80% burns. He is in critical condition and has been admitted to the intensive care unit of Kannur Government Medical College Hospital.
Prajisha and Padmini suffered over 50% burns. They were initially treated at a hospital in Payyanur and later shifted to the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Kannur. The Payyanur police registered the case based on a complaint filed by V.V. Prabhakaran, the father-in-law of the accused and the owner of the house. Prabhakaran and his grandchildren narrowly escaped the fire.
The police suspect that the incident was triggered by Prajisha's decision to seek a divorce from Sanalkumar. However, the exact sequence of events is still under investigation. The accused is currently under police guard at the hospital and will be formally arrested once his health condition permits, officials said.
The incident casts a stark light on the issue of domestic violence, which remains a serious concern in India. Legal provisions under the Indian Penal Code, including Section 307 for attempted murder, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, provide a framework for legal action and protection for victims.
According to the Kerala Police, they are examining the evidence, including statements from the injured and eyewitnesses. The investigation will also look into the events leading up to the incident. Further legal proceedings will follow as per the law.
Activists and counsellors urge communities to be vigilant and act promptly when they come across signs of domestic discord. Women in distress can approach the Kerala State Women's Commission or call the national helpline number 181 for assistance. They stress that timely intervention can prevent such tragedies.
The case also underscores the importance of mental health support and legal aid for families in crisis. While the legal process moves forward, the focus remains on the recovery of the victims and ensuring justice in the case.
In accordance with the principles of natural justice, the accused will be given a fair trial. The police are expected to file a chargesheet after completing the investigation. The courts will decide on the trial based on the evidence presented.
The incident has also drawn attention to the need for stronger community awareness about the protections available to women under law. Experts say that many victims do not come forward due to fear or social pressure. It is imperative that family members and friends support survivors of abuse in seeking help.
Kerala has seen several cases of crime against women, prompting the state government to establish women's cells in every district. Special investigation teams often take up such cases. However, the effective implementation of laws and social change remain crucial to prevent such incidents.
