Former Kerala minister files for divorce

Thiruvananthapuram, April 11: Former

minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar, who quit the ministry over allegations of causing domestic violence, and his wife have finally sought divorce.

Both have now withdrawn cases filed against each other. A family court has posted the case for hearing Oct 21.

Ganesh Kumar, 46, a former film star, was forced to resign as the forests and environment minister, after a news report said he was thrashed by his lover's husband.

His doctor-wife Yamini Thankachi met Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and complained that she was at the receiving end of domestic violence.

The couple appeared before a magistrate April 5, and the possibility of compromise was explored.

After four hours of discussion, the two were told not to speak in public about the proceedings in the magistrate's chamber.

The efforts of the magistrate to work out a compromise appear to have worked. Ganesh Kumar made a public apology two days back, and broke down while addressing a press conference.

On Thursday, his wife told the media that she was withdrawing all cases against Ganesh Kumar and thanked those who mediated between them.

"I have got justice and I wish to thank all who stood with me in my hour of crisis," Thankachi said, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Apart from filing for divorce through mutual consent, Ganesh Kumar has reportedly given Thankachi and their two children the family house in the heart of the state capital.

IANS