Kerala Court Clears Three RSS Workers in 2017 Madrassa Teacher Murder

In a significant legal development from Kasaragod, three RSS activists were acquitted by the Kasaragod Principal Sessions Court in a case involving the murder of a madrassa teacher within a mosque premises in 2017. The court, led by Judge K.K. Balakrishnan, delivered the verdict on Saturday, clearing Akhilesh, Nidhin, and Ajesh, all hailing from Kelugude, of all charges related to the crime.

The trio had been in custody for seven years without bail following the murder of Mohammed Riyas Maulavi, a 34-year-old muezzin and teacher from Choori, who was found deceased with his throat slit inside his room at the Muhayuddin Juma Masjid on March 20, 2017. The prosecution's inability to establish a motive or any connection between the accused and the RSS played a pivotal role in their acquittal.

Furthermore, the court highlighted investigative lapses, particularly regarding the analysis of seized phones from both the accused and witnesses, which failed to yield any incriminating evidence. This failure was criticized for undermining the investigation's credibility and ultimately led to doubts about its thoroughness and impartiality.

The court's decision was based on the lack of concrete evidence proving beyond reasonable doubt that the accused were responsible for Maulavi's murder. As such, they were acquitted of all charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including murder and promoting enmity between different groups.

Despite strong claims of evidence by the prosecution, including Maulavi's blood on one of the accused's clothing and a piece of fabric from Maulavi on the knife allegedly used in the crime, the court found these claims insufficient for a conviction. The prosecution has expressed disappointment with the verdict and intends to appeal.

The case saw examination of 97 witnesses, review of 215 documents, and consideration of 45 material pieces of evidence. The charge sheet had been filed within 90 days of the incident. The verdict has been met with dismay by Maulavi’s family, with his wife expressing her disappointment publicly.

Relatives of Maulavi criticized the judgment, pointing out that even though bail was denied to the accused for seven years, there was no direct connection established between them and Maulavi. They also highlighted that the charge sheet suggested an attempt to incite communal unrest as a motive behind the crime.

This case has drawn attention not only for its sensitive communal overtones but also for questions it raises about investigative standards and judicial processes in handling such delicate matters. The acquittal brings relief to the accused after years of incarceration but leaves Maulavi’s family seeking justice and closure.