Thamarassery witnessed intense protests on Monday outside the Vellimadukunnu juvenile detention centre, where the five accused in the Shahabas murder case appeared for their Class 10 exams under police protection. Demonstrators, led by Youth Congress, KSU, and MSF activists, gathered in front of the centre, demanding justice.
To prevent any escalation, authorities deployed heavy police security. A Youth Congress protester who breached the compound of the social justice complex—where the exam was being held—was swiftly removed by police. Similarly, a KSU activist, a woman, was escorted out after breaking through security. Several MSF and KSU agitators who refused to leave were detained and taken away in a police vehicle.
Expressing his anguish, Shahabas’ father condemned the decision to allow the accused to write their exams. “My son should have been taking his exams today, but instead, he is buried six feet under. Even students caught cheating face a year’s suspension, yet these accused are given a free pass. The authorities should have barred them from appearing for exams to send a strong message,” he said, adding that his wife was deeply distressed upon hearing the news.
The Kozhikode Juvenile Justice Board denied bail to the five accused, all under 16, ordering their detention at the Vellimadukunnu Observation Home until March 15, 2025. However, they were permitted to take their SSLC exams under strict police escort, with their hall tickets and exam details submitted to the court.
Shahabas, a student of MJ Higher Secondary School, Elettil, succumbed to injuries early Saturday after being attacked by students from GVHSS Thamarassery. The fatal incident reportedly stemmed from tensions during a farewell party at Triz Institute, a tuition centre in Thamarassery.
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