Thiruvananthapuram: Sherin, the prime accused in the murder case of Bhaskara Karanavar from Cheriyanad, has been granted jail release by the Kerala Cabinet. Sherin, who served 14 years of imprisonment, was released considering her unique circumstances as a woman and the plea she submitted. In her application, Sherin highlighted the need to secure the future of her son, who is currently outside the prison.
Background of the Case:
On November 7, 2009, Bhaskara Karanavar was murdered at Karanuver’s Villa in Thuruthimel, Cheriyanad. Sherin, Karanavar’s daughter-in-law, was the prime accused in the case. She had been married to Karanavar’s younger son, Binu Peter, who has physical challenges, as a measure to ensure his future security. However, marital discord and Sherin’s alleged extramarital relationships and revenge motives eventually led to the crime.
Basit Ali, Shanur Rasheed, and Nithin, whom Sherin met through the social media platform Orkut, were other accused in the case. The police investigation concluded that the motive for the murder was retaliation for Sherin being excluded from inheriting property.
Verdict of the Case:
On June 11, 2010, the Mavelikkara Fast Track Court convicted Sherin and sentenced her to life imprisonment. Following her conviction, Sherin was initially imprisoned at Poojappura Central Jail and later transferred to Neyyattinkara Women’s Jail. She faced disciplinary action in prison for using a mobile phone. In March 2015, Sherin was moved to Viyyur Central Jail, where an incident involving her relationship with the jail doctor sparked significant controversy. She was subsequently transferred to the Women’s Jail in Thiruvananthapuram in March 2017.
Cabinet’s Decision:
The Kerala Cabinet decided to approve Sherin’s release, citing her completion of 14 years of imprisonment and the special considerations of her being a woman. Her plea emphasized the importance of safeguarding her son’s future, which was a significant factor in the government’s decision.
