Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Home Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan told the Assembly that the government faces legal constraints in re-opening a case settled by the Supreme Court.
The state had sought legal opinion after the victim sought a fresh probe against Kurien. Director general of prosecutions T Asif Ali , law secretary and the state counsel in the case in the SC advised against it. Ali opined there was no fresh evidence other than the victim’s statement, which was a repeat of her earlier stand that Kurien had raped her.
CPM’s P Sreeramakrishnan said the state should reject the advice of Ali, a member of the Congress, and re-open the case based on the fresh revelations of the witnesses.
The Opposition can move the High Court for re-investigation, said Radhakrishnan. Chandy too said Ali’s opinion was not the final word.
Charges baseless: Wife
Susan Kurien, meanwhile, defended her husband. “I am sure the charges against my husband are baseless. Myself and my daughters believe the truth will prevail,” she said and added, “Those fighting for women’s rights should not forget Kurien too has a family.” PTI