'Kerala is doomed without Gulf-like laws!' Retired teacher demands stricter juvenile rules | WATCH

Thamarassery: A retired teacher, Jaya Ramendra Kurup, staged a protest in front of the Vellimadukunnu Juvenile Detention Center, expressing her outrage over the recent murder of Mohammed Shahbaz, a Class 10 student from Thamarassery. The tragic incident has sparked widespread anger, and Kurup, fueled by the incident, demanded strict reforms in juvenile laws and an end to leniency towards young offenders.

Kurup, who is a retired teacher, made her stance clear, stating that such heinous acts should never be tolerated. “How can children become like this? Parents must take responsibility, and teachers should properly guide the kids. But more importantly, we need to have laws in place that properly punish such offenders,” she said. 

The retired teacher emphasised that the juvenile laws in Kerala must undergo changes. “These children, who have murdered a 10th-standard student, are still being allowed to sit for exams. This should not happen,” she stated, calling for tougher penalties. Kurup advocated for severe punishments similar to those imposed in countries like the Gulf nations. She argued that the current leniency in the justice system only breeds more crime and chaos.

Kurup further added that strict laws, without any bias based on caste, religion or political party, are the only way to ensure that Kerala becomes a safer place. "If we do not act now, Kerala is doomed," she warned. She also expressed concerns about the lack of discipline and accountability in both schools and homes. 

While addressing the media, Kurup highlighted the necessity of not only punishing the offenders but also taking a closer look at parenting and education systems. "Parents need to be properly counseled, and teachers must be empowered to shape the future generation. The absence of strict measures will only lead to more such incidents,” she added.

The murder of Shahbaz has deeply affected the local community, leaving many questioning the effectiveness of the current juvenile justice system.