‘Attack’ on former minister Veena George: Kerala HC seeks report from govt on KSU activist’s plea

Kochi: High court on Wednesday sought a report from the state govt on a petition filed by KSU functionary Athul M C of Kannur, the first accused in a case relating to the alleged attack on former health minister Veena George at Kannur railway station, seeking a direction to entrust the investigation to a senior officer not below DSP rank.The bench of Justice G Gireesh further adjourned the matter for consideration after two weeks. According to prosecution, on Feb 25, when Veena George arrived at the railway station to board the Vande Bharat Express to Thiruvananthapuram, KSU members, including the petitioner, allegedly attacked her.Athul’s plea contends that the allegations in the FIR were exaggerated and did not reflect the actual events. He further alleged that offences such as attempt to murder and voluntarily causing hurt with dangerous weapons had been included in the case without any basis. According to him, it was a protest that took place in a highly secured public place under extensive police presence and surveillance, and the entire incident was captured on CCTV footage that was widely circulated in the media. He also claimed that there was no evidence to invoke the alleged offences against the protestors, including himself.During hearing, the public prosecutor informed HC that the final report in the case had already been filed before the jurisdictional court. Accordingly, HC sought a report regarding the offences incorporated in the case and posted the matter to June 29.