Kerala Police Book Judge After Fatal Crash Involving Minor Son, Seek Cancellation of Teen’s Bail

The developments follow widespread public criticism of how the case was handled, after the teenager was initially released on station bail and later granted bail by the Juvenile Justice Board.

The judge, who owns the car involved in the accident, is being investigated over his alleged responsibility under the Motor Vehicles Act for allowing his minor son, who did not have a driving licence, to use the vehicle. Police registered the case against the judicial officer after securing permission from the Kerala High Court.

Scooter Rider Killed in Early-Morning Collision

The accident occurred around 2.20 a.m. on Sunday on Container Road in Cheranelloor, when the Mercedes-Benz allegedly driven by the teenager collided with a scooter ridden by Jayabalakrishnan, 55, a resident of Manjali. He died at the scene.

Jayabalakrishnan operated a small roadside eatery near Chittoor temple and was returning home after closing his shop for the night. His death has left his wife and three children without their primary breadwinner.

According to investigators, the teenager regularly drove the vehicle and had taken it out late at night to record a social media reel showing him driving at high speed. Police have recovered footage from his mobile phone that allegedly shows the car travelling at high speed shortly before the collision.

Bail Decision Triggers Public Outcry

The teenager was initially taken into custody following the accident but was released on station bail on Sunday evening. After protests by the victim’s family and local residents, he was taken into custody again and produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, which subsequently granted him bail.

Police have invoked Sections 181 and 183 of the Motor Vehicles Act against the teenager over alleged driving without a licence and overspeeding. Investigators are now preparing to seek cancellation of his bail.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has directed officials to take urgent action following the public backlash over the teenager’s initial release.

The Additional Director General of Police responsible for law and order has been asked to examine alleged lapses in the handling of the case. A show-cause notice is also expected to be issued to Kochi City Police Commissioner Kaliraj Mahesh Kumar.

Victim’s Family Demands Accountability

The case has intensified public concern over the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash and the subsequent police response. Jayabalakrishnan’s daughter collapsed during a sit-in protest outside the police station and was taken to hospital.

She has vowed to continue seeking justice for her father, while the family has demanded strict action against all those found responsible.

The police investigation is continuing, including the examination of the circumstances in which the minor allegedly obtained access to the vehicle and the conduct of officials involved in the case.