Kerala: Time sheet reveals delay in Siddhardh murder case handover to CBI, CM Pinarayi Vijayan under scrutiny

In a startling revelation, the time sheet connected to the Siddhardh murder case has exposed a significant delay in transferring the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This delay has raised suspicions of deliberate stalling tactics, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan coming under fire for purported inaction. Despite the issuance of an order for a CBI inquiry on March 9, following a meeting between Siddhardh’s father, Jayaprakash, and CM Vijayan, subsequent actions were conspicuously absent. The aftermath saw the suspension of three officials, perceived by some as mere scapegoats, while scrutiny intensifies on the role of CM Vijayan, who also holds the portfolio of Home Minister.

The tragic demise of J.S. Siddhardh, a second-year student at Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Pookkode, Wayanad, initially deemed a suicide, gained national attention when Janam TV raised suspicions of foul play. Allegations against various university officials, including the Vice-Chancellor, Dean, Warden, and members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), hinted at a meticulously orchestrated murder attempt concealed as suicide.

Key revelations from the time sheet indicate critical lapses in the handling of the case. The delay in preparing the ‘Proforma Report’ for CBI handover, coupled with the non-translation of the First Information Report (FIR) into English, underscore administrative negligence. Despite assurances from CM Vijayan to Jayaprakash regarding the completion of necessary formalities, the investigation remained stagnant. Furthermore, the involvement of active SFI workers as prime suspects adds layers of complexity to the case, suggesting a sinister conspiracy.

Critics contend that attributing blame solely to lower-level officials lacks credibility, given the centralised control exerted by CM Vijayan over the Home Ministry. Speculation arises regarding the political motives behind the delayed CBI inquiry, particularly amidst impending parliamentary elections. The move to initiate an inquiry is perceived as a superficial attempt to pacify public outrage, with intentions to allow the issue to fade from public memory over time, potentially jeopardising justice.

Amidst mounting concerns, Jayaprakash’s detailed account of the case to Union Ministers V. Muraleedharan and Rajeev Chandrasekhar prompted swift intervention. Subsequently, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) was dispatched to Delhi to expedite the transfer of documents to the CBI headquarters. Observers emphasise the critical need for a prompt commencement of the CBI inquiry to prevent loss of crucial evidence, citing previous instances of mishandled cases.

The urgency for swift action is underscored by past instances, such as the unresolved murder of SFI leader Abhimanyu, where bureaucratic negligence led to the disappearance of crucial documents. Despite widespread belief in the involvement of Popular Front of India (PFI) operatives, political reluctance to confront the issue allowed the narrative to shift away from justice for the victim. The case serves as a cautionary tale, emphasising the imperative of diligent investigation and accountability.

As the Siddhardh murder case unfolds, it underscores the challenges of ensuring swift and impartial justice in the face of bureaucratic inertia and political manoeuvring. The onus lies on the authorities to uphold the integrity of the investigation and deliver closure to the victim’s family while restoring public trust in the justice system. Any further delay risks compromising the pursuit of truth and perpetuating a culture of impunity, echoing the unresolved grievances of past tragedies like that of Abhimanyu.