Kochi: The CBI special court in Ernakulam is set to pronounce the quantum of punishment in the Periya double murder case on Friday 12:15pm after hearing the defence.

A few days ago, the court convicted 14 accused, including CPM leaders, for their involvement in the brutal murders of Youth Congress workers Sarath Lal and Kripesh in Periya, Kasaragod.

The court found Accused 1 to 8 guilty of murder, while others faced charges of conspiracy, unlawful assembly, rioting, obstruction, and destruction of evidence. Sentences are likely to range from life imprisonment to the death penalty.

Among the convicted are prominent CPM leaders, including:

  • A. Peethambaran: First accused and former CPM Periya local committee member, found to be directly involved in the murders.
  • K. Manikandan: 14th accused, former Uduma area secretary and Kanhangad block panchayat president, found guilty of aiding the accused.
  • K.V. Kunhiraman: 20th accused, former Uduma MLA and CPM district secretariat member.
  • Raghavan Velutholi: 21st accused, former Pakkam local secretary and Vyapaari Vyasayi Samiti leader.

Ten individuals were acquitted, including former Periya local secretary N. Balakrishnan, former Echiladukkam branch secretary P. Rajesh, and eight party workers.

The case has been closely followed due to its political implications and the involvement of prominent CPM leaders. Despite the ruling, the case may continue, as the prosecution and the families of the victims are likely to appeal against the acquittals.