Murder Accused Faces New Charges for Threatening Judge in Tiruvallur Court
The Tiruvallur Police have registered a fresh criminal case against a 60-year-old murder accused for allegedly threatening the presiding judge, the Special Public Prosecutor, and a witness during the trial of a double murder case before the Mahila Court in Tiruvallur.
The accused, Ravi, a resident of the MMDA Colony Housing Board in Maduravoyal, is facing trial for the alleged murder of his two children. The case dates back to June 2015, when neighbours alerted the police after sensing a foul smell emanating from his residence in Maduravoyal.
A search led to the recovery of the bodies of the two children from a bedroom. The police registered a murder case, but Ravi had absconded by then. After evading arrest for more than five years, Ravi was apprehended by the police in Periamet in September 2020 and remanded in judicial custody. The double murder case is currently under trial before the Mahila Court in Tiruvallur.
The police said Ravi chose to argue the case in person during a recent hearing. In a complaint lodged by Special Public Prosecutor Ramana, it was alleged that Ravi repeatedly interrupted the court proceedings, threatened Judge Revathi, the prosecutor, and a prosecution witness, and attempted to intimidate them during cross-examination.
The new case against Ravi has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code for criminal intimidation and obstructing the course of justice. The development highlights the challenges faced by the judiciary in ensuring safe and fair trials, especially in cases involving accused persons who choose to represent themselves.
The Mahila Court, which handles cases related to women and children, is now tasked with ensuring that the trial proceeds without further intimidation. The judge has taken note of the complaint and has reportedly instructed the court administration to enhance security measures.
Ravi's actions, if proven, could result in additional penalties, including extended imprisonment. Legal experts note that threatening a judge is a serious offence that undermines the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
