In a significant ruling, the Irinjalakuda Fast-Track Special Court delivered a stern verdict on Tuesday, sentencing Biju, also known as Vijayakumar, 40, from Alathur in Palakkad district, to two life terms. In addition to these life sentences, he will face another 15 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of ₹1.35 lakh.
The judgment, pronounced by Judge Viveeja Sethumohan, found Biju guilty of a series of heinous acts. On August 3, 2022, he broke into the home of a 91-year-old woman, subjected her to sexual assault, and stole her 2.5-sovereign gold chain.
Tragically, the elderly victim, who was attacked while in the midst of her meal, passed away within eight months of the incident. The prosecution’s case was built on compelling evidence, including scientific findings like hair samples retrieved from the crime scene, and the recovery of the stolen gold chain, which Biju confessed to having taken. Further corroboration came from a neighbour’s testimony and details regarding the motorbike used by the accused, all of which bolstered the prosecution’s arguments.
During the intense trial, the prosecution presented a robust case, examining 29 witnesses, submitting 52 crucial documents, and introducing 21 material objects as evidence.
The court’s sentence encompassed double life imprisonment for the charges of rape and robbery. Additionally, Biju received a 10-year rigorous imprisonment term for house trespass and another five years of rigorous imprisonment for outraging a woman’s modesty. Should he fail to pay the imposed fine, an extra 16 months will be added to his prison time.
The collected fine will be rightfully disbursed to the victim’s legal heirs as compensation, offering a measure of justice to her family.