A Kerala man, Chenthamara, 57, who has been a remand prisoner in Viyyur central jail for the 2019 alleged murder of a woman named Sajitha, has allegedly committed a double murder while out on bail. The victims, identified as Sudhakaran, a 53-year-old driver, and his elderly mother Lakshmi, were residents of Pothundi.
Chenthamara, who was released on bail two months ago, reportedly harboured a grudge against Sudhakaran's family, blaming them for the breakdown of his marriage. According to locals, Chenthamara developed a revengeful attitude after his wife left him, holding Sajitha and her family responsible for the separation.
Sudhakaran has been staying away from Pothundi fearing Chenthamara. But he came today for a matter related to welfare pension.
The tragic incident occurred when Sudhakaran was riding his scooter. Sudhakaran died on the spot, while Lakshmi also succumbed to injuries inflicted by the accused though she was taken to a nearby hospital. Before the murders, Chenthamara allegedly threatened a woman from the neighbourhood with a long knife.
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Local residents and Sudhakaran’s daughter Akhila, have accused the police of negligence. They claim that multiple complaints had been filed warning about Chenthamara’s violent tendencies and potential threat to the community. A signed petition was also submitted to the police, urging them to take preventive action. However, residents allege that no steps were taken to avert the tragedy.
Chenthamara is currently absconding, and a police team, led by the Alathur DySP, has launched a manhunt to apprehend him. Meanwhile, local residents are staging a protest, demanding that the district collector address their safety concerns and provide assurances. They have refused to allow Sudhakaran’s body to be taken away until their demands are met.
