What Sentenced Chenthamara to Double Life Imprisonment in the Kerala Nenmara Sajitha Murder Case?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Chenthamara received double life imprisonment for murder.
- The ruling reinforces accountability in violent crime cases.
- Over 50 witnesses contributed to the trial.
- Community response reflects relief and concern.
- Authorities are set to proceed with another trial.
Palakkad, Oct 18 (NationPress) In a pivotal ruling in the notorious Nenmara Pothundi Sajitha murder case, the Kerala court on Saturday sentenced the only accused, Chenthamara, to double life imprisonment.
This sentence pertains to the murder of Sajitha in 2019.
In addition to the life sentences, the court imposed fines amounting to Rs 4.75 lakh.
The Fourth Additional Sessions Court of Palakkad confirmed that Chenthamara's actions, which included murder, destroying evidence, and illegal entry, were proven beyond any reasonable doubt.
He was also given a five-year sentence and a Rs 50,000 fine for evidence tampering, with all sentences running concurrently.
Chenthamara had fatally attacked Sajitha at her residence in Nenmara in August 2019, believing she and a neighbor had caused strife within his family.
At that moment, Sajitha's children were at school, and her husband was away in Tamil Nadu.
After receiving bail in this case, Chenthamara went on to commit another double murder on January 27, resulting in the revocation of his bail.
Sajitha's children, Atulya and Akhil, who attended the court proceedings, expressed relief at the verdict.
"Seeing him in court was terrifying. We hope he never receives bail again," shared the two young girls.
The trial, which lasted six years, featured testimonies from 50 witnesses, including Chenthamara's wife, who affirmed that the murder weapon had been stored at their home and that she suffered prolonged mental and physical abuse.
Critical to the conviction were physical evidence, forensic reports, and over 30 official documents.
Family members had previously voiced concerns for their safety if Chenthamara was released and called for the harshest punishment.
In light of this ruling, authorities are gearing up for a separate trial concerning Chenthamara's double murder case.
Palakkad SP of Police Ajithkumar stated that the trial for the double murder is advancing swiftly.
Chenthamara's violent acts have left the local community in shock, and the verdict brings a sense of closure to the victims' families, while reinforcing the judicial system's accountability in instances of premeditated and repeat violent crimes.