Should CM Vijayan Explain the Kannur Jailbreak?
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Synopsis
The recent jailbreak of notorious criminal Govindachamy from high-security Kannur Prison has raised serious security concerns. Former Union Minister V. Muraleedharan demands accountability from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding this alarming breach. How did such a serious lapse occur, and what does it imply for Kerala's prison system?
Key Takeaways
- Govindachamy escaped from high-security Kannur Prison.
- Former Union Minister V. Muraleedharan demands answers from CM Vijayan.
- The escape highlights severe security lapses.
- An investigation is underway, resulting in suspensions.
- Public safety concerns are at the forefront of this issue.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 25 (NationPress) Former Union Minister and prominent BJP figure V. Muraleedharan has called upon Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to clarify to the public the circumstances that allowed notorious criminal Govindachamy to escape from the high-security Kannur Prison.
"Typically, CM Vijayan tends to remain silent when controversies arise. However, in this serious matter, he must disclose the details surrounding this incident," stated Muraleedharan.
As both the Chief Minister and the Home Minister, Vijayan must address the numerous concerns regarding this prison break. Questions arise about whether Govindachamy received assistance from individuals inside and outside the prison," he elaborated.
"This incident signifies a blatant security failure, as the prison officials only became aware of the escape at 7 p.m. What happened to the jail's CCTV system? Reports indicate that the electric fence was deactivated. There are many unanswered questions that need addressing," Muraleedharan commented.
"This marks yet another failure of the system in Kerala. Senior CPI-M leader P. Jayarajan is part of the Jail Committee, a position often assigned to safeguard the interests of the CPI-M. It is imperative to eliminate the 'jail mafia' that dominates Kerala's prisons," Muraleedharan stated.
On Friday morning, residents of Kerala were shocked to learn that Govindachamy had fled from Kannur Prison.
Govindachamy escaped around 1:15 a.m., but the jail authorities only recognized the lapse around 5 a.m., reporting it to the local police after a two-hour delay.
Reports indicate that a power outage coincided with the jailbreak. A long rope made of clothing was discovered hanging from the prison wall, which stands over 25 feet tall.
His escape ended around 10:30 a.m. when he was found hiding in a well approximately 4 km from the prison.
Police rescued him from a well situated on the grounds of an abandoned house, where locals, frustrated by his actions, were seen slapping him as he was pulled out.
The police had received an alert about a man hiding in a deserted house near the jail.
A sniffer dog played a crucial role in locating him, having traveled about 2 km from the prison to the arrest site.
During interrogation, Govindachamy revealed that he had planned the escape for over a month and had smuggled a blade out of the jail workshop to cut iron rods.
He indicated that he had no concerns about getting caught, stating that returning to prison was not a new experience for him.
He was subsequently taken to a state-run hospital for medical evaluation.
A new case will be filed against him for his escape.
The police have planned to transfer him from Kannur Prison to Viyyur Jail in Thrissur district.
An investigation into the security breach at Kannur Jail has begun, resulting in the suspension of four officials.
Govindachamy was sentenced to life imprisonment for the 2011 rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the situation with an unbiased lens. The jailbreak of Govindachamy not only raises questions about prison security but also reflects broader systemic issues within the state's governance. Citizens deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders, particularly in matters that threaten public safety.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Govindachamy?
Govindachamy is a notorious criminal sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman in 2011.
What happened during the jailbreak?
Govindachamy escaped from Kannur Prison around 1:15 a.m. on July 25, and the authorities became aware of it around 5 a.m.
What is being done about the security lapse?
An investigation has commenced, and four officials have been suspended in connection with the jailbreak.
Where was Govindachamy found?
He was located hiding in a well approximately 4 km away from the prison.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident raises serious concerns about prison security in Kerala and demands accountability from state leaders.
