Police in Kochi have searched the residence of a serving judge whose 17-year-old son is accused of driving a Mercedes-Benz that struck a scooter, killing a 55-year-old man. The search marks a significant development in an investigation that has drawn public scrutiny over the handling of the case and allegations of preferential treatment.
The searches were conducted on October 28, following directions from the Kerala High Court. Investigators collected CCTV footage and other potential evidence from the judge’s flat as authorities continued examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Investigation Expands After Judge Is Named as an Accused
The judge, an Additional District and Sessions Judge serving in Irinjalakuda in Thrissur district, was named as an accused a day before the search. The action relates to his status as the registered owner of the Mercedes-Benz allegedly driven by his minor son.
Police invoked Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, which provides for liability involving a vehicle’s owner or a juvenile’s guardian in certain offences committed by minors using motor vehicles.
A Crime Branch team, including an assistant commissioner of police and personnel from the Photographic Bureau, took part in the inspection of the residence. The investigation has also involved reviewing footage and other material to establish what happened before and after the collision.
Victim Was Returning Home After Work
The accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, October 25, on Container Road near Maraparambu in Cheranalloor, Kochi.
Jayabalakrishnan, 55, was returning home after closing his roadside food business when the Mercedes-Benz allegedly struck his scooter from behind. The impact proved fatal, and attempts by people at the scene to help him were unsuccessful.
The teenager was initially booked for causing death by negligence and was released on bail at the police station. Following protests by the victim’s family, police apprehended him again and added a charge of culpable homicide not amounting to murder under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The Juvenile Justice Board subsequently granted him bail. Police have begun steps to challenge that decision and seek cancellation of the bail.
Family Raises Concerns Over Handling of Case
Jayabalakrishnan’s family has demanded accountability and questioned the circumstances in which the teenager was initially released. Relatives have also alleged that the judge’s position may have influenced the early handling of the investigation.
The family has raised concerns about the treatment of evidence and alleged attempts to shield those involved. These remain allegations and are subject to investigation.
The family is considering further legal action before the Kerala High Court, seeking action against both the minor accused and his father. Its demands come amid growing public attention to whether the case is being handled impartially.
Police Conduct Faces Additional Scrutiny
The case has also prompted questions about police procedures during the initial response. Authorities have transferred the investigation to the District Crime Branch amid concerns over possible lapses, while senior officials have sought explanations regarding the handling of the case.
The High Court’s involvement and the search of the judge’s residence add to the scrutiny surrounding the investigation. Officials are expected to examine the collected evidence and follow the applicable legal procedures before determining further action.
The investigation remains ongoing. The key issues include establishing the full circumstances of the crash, determining responsibility under the relevant motor vehicle and criminal laws, and addressing concerns raised by the victim’s family about the fairness of the process.
