Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Rape and Murder of Woman in Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta (Kerala), Jan 31:
In a landmark judgment, a Pathanamthitta court on Saturday sentenced a man to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of a woman in Kottangal in December 2019, delivering a stern message against sexual violence and crimes targeting women.

Additional District and Sessions Court Judge Jayakrishnan G P handed down the sentence to Nazeer, also known as Naimon, a resident of Kottangal, for the brutal killing of Thinchu Michael, whose life was tragically cut short in an incident that shocked the local community.

The court ruled that the accused would serve:

• Life imprisonment under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for murder,
• 10 years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 376(2)(m) IPC for rape causing grievous bodily harm or endangering the life of a woman, and
• Seven years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 450 IPC for house trespass.

The judgment comes more than six years after the crime, following a detailed investigation and careful trial proceedings. During the hearing, the court meticulously examined forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and circumstantial details, establishing the accused’s guilt beyond doubt.

Speaking after the verdict, legal experts noted that the sentence reflects the judiciary’s firm stance against sexual assault and violent crimes, emphasizing that perpetrators would face severe consequences under the law.

The case had drawn widespread attention in Kerala, raising concerns over women’s safety and prompting calls for stricter enforcement of legal provisions to protect women from sexual and violent crimes. The court’s verdict has been welcomed by the victim’s family and the public as a step toward justice and accountability.

Officials from the Pathanamthitta district administration confirmed that the sentence would be executed immediately, and efforts would be made to ensure that the convict serves the full term in accordance with the law.

This case serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s role in safeguarding society, particularly vulnerable groups, and reinforces the principle that crimes against women will not go unpunished.