In a development that has reignited controversy, Ranjith T, a convict serving sentence in the high-profile 2019 Periya double murder case, was granted a 15-day parole on Monday from Kannur central jail. This marks the second time in just over two months that he has received such relief, drawing sharp criticism from various quarters.
Frequent Parole Grants Under Scrutiny
The decision to grant parole to Ranjith T has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the frequency of such releases for convicts involved in this politically sensitive case. Notably, he is not the only one benefiting from parole. The prime convict in the case, A Peethambaran, a former CPM Periya local committee member, and another convict named Gijin are also currently out on parole.
Jail Officials Defend the Decision
Amid the growing criticism, officials from Kannur central jail have come forward to defend the move. They asserted that the parole was granted after strictly adhering to all established jail rules and procedures. "We follow the regulations meticulously," a jail official stated, emphasizing that the decision was made within the legal framework.
Previous Parole Instances in the Case
This is not an isolated incident. In September 2025, three CPM activists serving double life terms in the same case were granted a 30-day parole. Those individuals included prime convict Peethambaran, second accused Saji George, and the seventh accused A Ashwin. The pattern of parole grants has raised eyebrows, with critics arguing it undermines the severity of the crime.
Conditions Attached to the Parole
The latest parole for Ranjith T comes with specific restrictions. He has been barred from entering the limits of the Bekal Police station, where the families of the victims reside. This condition is likely imposed to prevent any potential tensions or confrontations in the area.
Background of the Periya Double Murder Case
The case dates back to February 17, 2019, when two Youth Congress workers, Kripesh (aged 19) and Sarath Lal (aged 24), were brutally murdered in Periya, Kasaragod. The killings were allegedly carried out by CPM workers, stemming from escalating political tensions between CPM and Congress supporters in the region. The incident sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the volatile nature of political rivalries in the area.
The frequent parole grants to convicts in this case continue to be a contentious issue, with many calling for stricter adherence to justice and accountability in politically motivated crimes.
