Actor Maniyanpilla Raju Faces Police Over Vazhuthacaud Hit-and-Run Incident
Prominent actor Maniyanpilla Raju presented himself before the Museum Police in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, following a serious hit-and-run accident at Vazhuthacaud that left two young men with severe injuries. The incident, which has sparked significant public and media attention, occurred late on Thursday evening, raising questions about road safety and accountability.
Details of the Accident and Injuries
The collision took place around 10 pm on Thursday in front of the Trivandrum Club at Vazhuthacaud. According to initial reports, a car allegedly rammed into a Royal Enfield motorcycle carrying two youths, identified as Sooraj, 20, and Nivedith Krishna, 20, both residents of Thiruvananthapuram. The impact resulted in critical injuries for both individuals.
- Sooraj sustained fractures to his left leg and shoulder, requiring immediate medical intervention.
- Nivedith suffered injuries to his head and legs, adding to the severity of the situation.
Both victims were promptly admitted to a private hospital in the city, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Their conditions are being closely monitored, with medical staff working to ensure a full recovery.
Raju's Statement and Defense
In his official statement to the police, Maniyanpilla Raju provided a contrasting account of the events. The actor claimed that the motorcycle involved in the accident was speeding and had collided with his car, suggesting that the riders' actions contributed to the crash.
Raju explained his decision not to stop at the scene by citing two primary reasons:
- He was suffering from chikungunya, a viral disease that can cause severe joint pain and fatigue, potentially impairing his ability to respond effectively.
- His wife was alone at home, and he felt compelled to ensure her safety and well-being, leading him to prioritize returning home immediately.
Furthermore, the actor asserted that he had informed the police about the incident shortly after it occurred and had assured them of his appearance at the police station the following day. This claim is now part of the ongoing investigation to verify the timeline and actions taken post-accident.
Legal Proceedings and Police Investigation
The police have registered a case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations:
- Section 281: Pertaining to rash or negligent driving on a public way that endangers human life.
- Section 125(a): Concerning acts that endanger the life or personal safety of others.
- Section 134(A): Related to the failure to take reasonable steps to secure medical attention for the injured, a critical aspect in hit-and-run cases.
Authorities have confirmed that Maniyanpilla Raju will undergo a medical examination as part of the investigative process. This step is standard procedure to assess any potential impairments or conditions that might have influenced the incident. The police have emphasized that the investigation is still in progress, with further details expected to emerge as they gather evidence and statements from all parties involved.
The case highlights broader issues of road safety and legal accountability in Kerala, drawing attention to the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws. As the investigation continues, the public awaits more clarity on the exact circumstances of the accident and the subsequent actions taken by the actor.
