Shahabaz case accused write SSLC exam amid protest

Victim's father expresses distress over decision calling it 'a great pain' for the family; bound to abide by legal framework, asserts police

- POOJA NAIR @Kozhikode

THE FIVE students accused in the Thamarassery Shahabaz murder case, wrote their SSLC examinations on Monday at a specially arranged exam centre inside the Vellimadukunnu Juvenile Home, where they are currently lodged. This move by the authorities came in the wake of strong protests from opposition student and youth organisations, leading to the detention of around 85 protesters.

The Juvenile Justice Board had granted permission for the accused to appear for the examination. However, due to anticipated protests, they were unable to write the exam at the Thamarassery Government Higher Secondary School, where they had been studying. To avoid further unrest, the education department and police opted for an alternative venue within the juvenile home itself.