Palakkad: The Palakkad District Sessions Court, while sentencing Chenthamara to death in the Nenmara double murder case, ordered that compensation be paid to the victims' families by selling the house registered in the name of his wife if necessary.

The court, which awarded death penalty to the convict, also commended the Kerala Police for completing the investigation efficiently. It observed that such a stringent punishment was necessary to ensure that society does not receive the wrong message from such heinous crimes.

The court directed that ₹20 lakh be paid as compensation to the children and relatives of the deceased Sudhakaran. If Chenthamara is unable to pay the amount, the court ordered that the house owned by his wife, Vilasini, be sold to raise the compensation. The amount is to be distributed in specified proportions among Akhila, Anaswara, Athulya, and Lakshmi's children, Surendran and Sunitha. The court also stated that if the convict is unable to pay the compensation, the government should provide financial assistance.

The court said it imposed the maximum punishment after considering reports that there was no possibility of the convict to be reformed. Reports submitted by prison authorities, mental health experts and the District Probation Officer stated that his release would pose a serious threat to society.

While expressing relief over the verdict, the victims' family said they still feared for their safety. Apart from compensation, the court also directed the government to provide a job to one of the children of the deceased. The family said they would not return to their native place as the memories of their father remained too painful.

After finding Chenthamara guilty, the court awarded maximum punishment sought by the prosecution. Sajitha's sister welcomed the verdict, saying justice had finally been served. The family also said Chenthamara was likely to appeal against the judgment, but they were prepared to continue the legal battle.