Kerala Parole Controversy: CPI(M) Defends Prisoners’ Rights Amid Criticism

The CPI(M) in Kerala has maintained that parole is a fundamental right of prisoners and should not be denied, amid criticism over granting parole to Kodi Suni, a convict in a high-profile murder case. The Left party clarified its position, stating such decisions lie with the government and prison authorities.

The ruling CPI(M) in Kerala asserted on Wednesday that parole is an inherent right for prisoners and should not be withheld. The party distanced itself from decisions regarding parole, emphasizing that such matters rest solely with the government and jail authorities.

CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan addressed media queries about the backlash over the government's parole decision for Kodi Suni, involved in the 2012 T P Chandrasekharan murder case. He reiterated that the CPI(M) neither endorses nor opposes parole decisions.

Despite a police report against Suni, he was granted a 30-day parole based on recommendations by the Kerala State Human Rights Commission. The opposition has criticized the decision as undermining the legal system, while CPI(M) defends the legal provision of parole.

(With inputs from agencies.)