Walayar lynching case: Ram Narayan’s family to receive body after govt vows justice

Palakkad: The family of Ram Narayan Baghel, a migrant worker killed in a mob attack in Walayar, has agreed to receive his body following decisive intervention by the government. The decision was reached after discussions led by Revenue Minister K Rajan, with both family members and the protest committee consenting to take custody of the remains.

During talks at the Thrissur Collectorate, the protest committee demanded financial assistance of no less than ₹10 lakh. Minister Rajan assured that a proposal to sanction this amount from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund would be placed before the next Cabinet meeting. He further stated that additional benefits under the SC/ST Atrocities Act (1989) would also be extended to the family.

The Minister pledged that none of those responsible for the murder would be spared and that a thorough investigation would be carried out. A special team, operating under the direct supervision of the District Police Chief, will handle the case to ensure the culprits face appropriate punishment.

Ram Narayan, a construction worker from Karhi village, died on December 17 after being detained and assaulted by a group of local residents in Attappallam, who accused him of theft. He had travelled to Kerala just a week before in search of employment. Police later confirmed that no evidence existed to connect him to any criminal activity.

For several days, the victim’s relatives had refused to accept the body, staging a protest outside the mortuary to secure a written assurance. With the government now committing to favourable measures, the protest has been called off. Officials confirmed that Ram Narayan’s body will be flown to Chhattisgarh, with all expenses borne by the state government.