In a compassionate gesture, the Kerala High Court has granted 15 days’ parole to a murder convict to enable him to marry his fiancée, who has chosen to stand by him despite his life sentence.
A single bench of Justice PV Kunhikrishnan on Friday ordered the convict’s release from July 12 to July 26 for the marriage.
While deciding the criminal writ petition, Justice Kunhikrishnan said he was deeply moved by the courage and emotional strength of the woman who remained committed to the convict even after his sentencing.
Taking note of the exceptional circumstances, the court exercised its extraordinary powers under Article 226 of the Constitution to grant parole. Jail authorities had earlier denied the request, citing that prison rules do not provide for emergency parole even for a convict’s own wedding.
The judge clarified that he was not focusing on the convict, but rather on the woman who chose to marry him out of love and unwavering affection. “She did not change her stand even after her partner was convicted,” the court observed. “Let that girl be happy, and this court showers all blessings upon her,” it added.
Quoting poet Maya Angelou, Justice Kunhikrishnan wrote in his order: “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences; penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” He reflected on the emotional depth and human dimension of the case.
The court directed that the convict be released on July 12 and return to Viyyur Central Prison by 4 pm on July 26.
The convict’s mother, Sathy, had approached the High Court after prison authorities rejected her parole plea. According to the current prison rules, there is no provision for emergency leave for a convict’s wedding.