Will Kerala ABVP Challenge Court's Acquittal in Vishal's Murder Case?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, the ABVP plans to challenge the court's recent acquittal of 19 accused in the murder of activist Vishal. The organization claims the ruling stems from political interference and altered testimonies.
Key Takeaways
- The ABVP plans to appeal the acquittal of 19 accused in Vishal's murder.
- The organization claims the acquittal was influenced by political pressure and witness manipulation.
- Vishal was targeted for his activism against religious conversions.
- The ABVP is committed to seeking justice through all legal avenues.
- Political dynamics in Kerala are further complicated by this case.
Alappuzha, Dec 30 (NationPress) The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) announced on Tuesday its intention to seek intervention from higher courts regarding the ruling from the Mavelikkara Additional Sessions Court, which acquitted all 19 individuals accused in the tragic murder of ABVP activist Vishal, a first-year student at NSS College in Konni, located in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district.
Labeling the court's decision as “deeply unfortunate and unacceptable”, the student organization affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pledged to continue its fight for justice.
The ABVP's Kerala chapter contended that the acquittal stemmed from manipulated and altered testimonies provided by key witnesses linked to the Students Federation of India (SFI) and the National Students' Union of India (Kerala Students' Union).
According to the ABVP, these witnesses initially gave incriminating statements against the accused during police inquiries but later retracted them during the trial, reportedly due to political influence.
The suspects were associated with the Campus Front, the student wing of the now-banned Popular Front of India (PFI).
The ABVP asserted that Vishal met a brutal demise in July 2012, attacked by extremist groups for organizing Saraswati Puja on a college campus and actively opposing religious conversion efforts.
Furthermore, the student organization accused the investigatory process of severe shortcomings, including delays in arrests and procedural errors, which they believe weakened the case for the prosecution and led to the loss of vital evidence.
Condemning what they termed a “collusion of radical forces and political agendas”, the ABVP held accountable leaders of Left and Congress-backed student organizations for allegedly protecting the accused.
They also alleged that the state government's involvement during the investigation facilitated the eventual acquittal.
ABVP National Secretary Shravan B. Raj expressed that the court's ruling represented a grave miscarriage of justice.
“Vishal stood resolutely for nationalism on campus despite threats from radical factions. His murder and the subsequent acquittal of the accused signify a painful denial of justice,” Raj stated, emphasizing that the organization will explore all legal options.
In agreement, ABVP National General Secretary Virendra Singh Solanki characterized the court's decision as “disheartening” and “unacceptable”.
He alleged a broader conspiracy involving political entities and radical groups to shield those accountable for the crime.
“This betrayal will not be forgotten. ABVP will intensify its legal efforts to secure stringent punishment for all involved in Vishal's murder,” he asserted.
Point of View
The ABVP's resolve to pursue legal avenues highlights ongoing tensions in the political landscape of Kerala. The implications of this case are far-reaching, potentially affecting student dynamics and political affiliations in the region. It’s crucial to observe how this situation unfolds and impacts the quest for justice.
NationPress
13/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ABVP's stance on the court's acquittal?
The ABVP strongly opposes the court's acquittal, labeling it a miscarriage of justice and pledging to challenge the ruling in higher courts.
Who was Vishal?
Vishal was an ABVP activist and a first-year degree student at NSS College, who was murdered in July 2012 for opposing religious conversions and organizing campus events.
What allegations does the ABVP make regarding the trial?
The ABVP alleges that key witnesses altered their testimonies under political pressure, which contributed to the acquittal of the accused.
What actions is the ABVP planning next?
The ABVP intends to escalate its legal battle by appealing to higher courts to seek justice for Vishal's murder.
What is the broader significance of this case?
This case underscores the intersection of politics and student activism in Kerala, highlighting ongoing tensions and the struggle for justice in politically charged environments.
