Thiruvanathapuram: Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has signed the recommendation forwarded by the state government seeking the release of Chandran alias Manichan who was convicted in Kalluvathukkal hooch tragedy case that rocked the state two decades ago. Along with Manichan, 32 others will be released from the jail.

Manichan has been serving the jail term for more than 22 years. He is part of a group of prisoners to be pardoned as part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', marking the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence.

Khan earlier had sought the clarification of the state government regarding the convicts whose names were forwarded. The first was about criteria for the release and whether the same criteria are applicable for all.  The state government had responded that those who have served 20 years or who are above the age of 60 is considered. The government also said that the 33 out of 60 were shortlisted after the review by expert committee. Following this, the Governor's has given his assent to release Manichan and others.

The usual practice is that after obtaining Governor’s assent, the government need to issue a circular having the list of prisoners to be released. Once it is handed over to the prison department, the prisoners can be released.

The Kalluvathukkal tragedy that claimed lives of 31 people and eye sight of another 500 took place on October 21, 2000 in Kollam. Manichan made underground rooms in his house to prepare hooch. Methanol was used for preparing the spurious liquor which resulted in the disaster. Manichan was sentenced for life term and another 43 years (to be served together) over various charges, including destruction of evidence.