In a rare and compassionate gesture, the Kerala High Court has allowed a life convict to be released on parole for 15 days so that he can solemnize his marriage. The decision came through Justice PV Kunhikrishnan, who exercised the Court's extraordinary jurisdiction while passing the order.
The relief was not merely granted for the convict but also in recognition of the bride’s brave and committed decision to marry him, fully aware of his life sentence. The Court gave significant weight to the emotional and human side of the situation.
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"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope,"
– Justice PV Kunhikrishnan quoted poet Maya Angelou during the hearing.
Initially, the prison authorities had denied the convict parole, citing that the Kerala Prison Rules do not permit emergency leave for a convict to attend his own marriage. However, the High Court decided to go beyond the existing rulebook, recognizing the exceptional nature of the situation.
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The facts reveal that the convict’s marriage was arranged prior to his conviction. Even after his sentencing, the bride chose to move forward with the wedding, showing unwavering support and love. Moved by her determination, the convict’s mother approached the High Court seeking special permission.
"I am looking at this case from the angle of that girl who decided to marry the convict. Even after the convict was sentenced to undergo life imprisonment, her love continues,"
remarked the Court.
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The wedding is scheduled for Sunday, July 13. Considering the urgency, the Court directed the convict’s release from prison on the day before the wedding and instructed that he must return to jail by July 26 before 4 P.M.
"Let that girl be happy, and this Court shower all blessings upon her,"
the Judge added while concluding the order.
Case Title: Sathy v. State of Kerala
Petitioner’s Counsel: ADVS. Sri. P. Mohamed Sabah, Sri. Libin Stanley, Smt. Saipooja, Sri. Sadik Ismayil, Smt. R. Gayathri, Sri. M. Mahin Hamza, Shri. Alwin Joseph, and Shri. Benson Ambrose
Respondent’s Counsel: Adv. Smt. Seetha S., Senior Public Prosecutor