Thiruvananthapuram: Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala has written to the Governor against the cabinet decision to grant leniency in the sentence of Sherin, the main accused and daughter-in-law of the Karanar family in the murder case of Bhaskara Karanar, a native of Cherianadu, Chengannur, Alappuzha. Chennithala pointed out in the letter that granting leniency in Sherin’s sentence is illegal and sends a wrong message to the society.
The cabinet decision to release Sherin, who was not only sentenced to three life terms but also had been transferred four times during his imprisonment, was lightning fast. The decision to release Sherin came at a time when the recommendations of the prison advisory committees were being made to release those who had been in prison for more than 25 years, citing the fact that she had completed only 14 years. Chennithala pointed out that this was due to the influence of high-ups in the cabinet itself. The cabinet decision to release Sherin was made considering the recommendation given by the Kannur Prison Advisory Committee in December. Bhaskara Karana, who had returned from the US, was murdered by his daughter-in-law and three male friends on November 8, 2009.
On June 11, 2010, the Mavelikkara Additional and Sessions Court (Fast Track) sentenced the accused to three life terms of rigorous imprisonment. Shereen had been granted parole for about 500 days in the last 14 years. In the meantime, the cabinet recommendation for Shereen’s release came, violating priorities. Chennithala pointed out in the letter that this violated all the norms. The cabinet recommended to the Governor to release Shereen, leaving behind those who had served sentences of up to 20 and 25 years. Chennithala said this was due to the influence the accused had at the top.
