Actress assault case: Kerala High Court orders submission of memory card and pen drive

Kochi: The Kerala High Court has directed that the memory card and pen drive, considered key pieces of evidence in the actress assault case, be produced before the court in person. The court also observed that the survivor's petition appears maintainable at first glance and has admitted the plea concerning the alleged leak of contents from the memory card.

The High Court has sought a response from the prosecution regarding the survivor's allegations over changes in the hash value of the memory card, which forms crucial evidence in the case. The court further ordered that both the memory card and the pen drive containing its copied contents be submitted in sealed covers within one month.

Reports indicate that the memory card was opened and examined on three occasions while in the custody of the trial court. The survivor has contended that the inquiry conducted by the trial court into the change in the hash value was inadequate and has sought a fresh investigation by a special team.

Through her petition, she has requested that the pen drive containing the copied data, along with other relevant evidence, be sent for scientific examination so that those responsible for any unauthorised access or tampering can be identified.

The plea has faced delays after two High Court judges recused themselves from hearing the matter. Justice Jobin Sebastian, who initially considered the petition, stepped aside from the case. Subsequently, Justice Kauser Edappagath also recused himself, stating that he was unable to hear the matter.

According to reports, Justice Kauser Edappagath's recusal was linked to findings concerning the examination of the memory card by court staff during his tenure as the Principal Sessions Judge in Ernakulam.

The petition is now awaiting further directions from the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court, who will decide which bench will hear the case.