Reform Indian Judiciary – Episode 4 A Big Salute to Kuruvila and Karuvelithara—not to the Judiciary

 

Reform Indian Judiciary – Episode 4

A Big Salute to Kuruvila and Karuvelithara—not to the Judiciary

The Kottayam Vigilance Court has sentenced Tomin J. Thachankery, who retired with the rank of DGP, to four years of rigorous imprisonment and fined him ₹30 lakh for amassing disproportionate assets. The verdict came 19 years after the case began.

One cannot help but wonder: if there had been a genuine commitment to investigating illicit wealth and delivering timely justice, would such a case really have needed 19 years? The delay reflects the serious shortcomings of India's judicial and legal systems. One can only imagine the harm an influential official might have caused the state and society during this prolonged period.

It is noteworthy that complaints against Tomin had reportedly existed since 1990. The verdict is the outcome of a relentless legal battle waged by Bobby Kuruvila and Alexander Karuvelithara, sons of the late K. C. Kuruvila of Karuvelithara, Mampuzhakkari, Alappuzha.

The fact that proceedings relating to the charge sheet filed by the Vigilance Department in 2013 could be delayed for so long raises serious questions about the functioning of our justice system. Such delays can allow accused individuals to continue their lives with access to resources allegedly acquired through illicit means, while complainants struggle for justice.

It was the persistence, determination and financial sacrifice of the complainants, who pursued the matter all the way to the Supreme Court, that helped make this verdict possible.

However, we must not overlook the thousands of cases in which justice remains out of reach because ordinary citizens lack the resources, time and support needed to sustain prolonged legal battles. When access to justice depends on a person's ability to fight for years and bear enormous expenses, the system demands urgent reform.

The time for a comprehensive overhaul of India's laws and judicial system is long overdue.

PEBS urges young people to step forward, raise their voices and demand meaningful judicial reforms. We need a legal system that delivers justice without unnecessary delay, ensures accountability and serves the needs of a modern democracy.

Let our voices be heard loud and clear. Let justice not be delayed. Let the legal system evolve to meet the needs of the modern era!

PEBS – People for Better Society

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