The Kerala High Court has ordered a temporary stay on the ongoing trial related to the murder of Youth Congress activist Shuhaib. This directive was passed by Justice P. V. Kunhikrishnan on June 4th, in response to a petition filed by Shuhaib’s parents and key witnesses involved in the case.
According to court records, the trial was being conducted before the Additional Sessions Court III in Thalassery. However, the petitioners raised concerns over the fairness of the proceedings due to the current public prosecutor’s alleged political affiliation.
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Shuhaib, a young and active member of the Youth Congress, was brutally murdered on February 12, 2018. The incident occurred in Mattanur, located in the Kannur district of Kerala. He was reportedly attacked and hacked to death by individuals suspected to be affiliated with the Communist Party of India (Marxist), also known as CPI(M). As per the case documents, Shuhaib suffered 29 serious injuries. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his wounds during transit.
In their plea, Shuhaib’s parents emphasized that they lacked confidence in the current public prosecutor, citing his alleged connection with the CPI(M). They urged the court to appoint a Special Public Prosecutor who is independent and trustworthy. They specifically recommended Adv. K. Padmanabha for the role.
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"We have no faith in the current prosecutor due to his political links," the petitioners stated before the court.
"Our demand is simple – a fair trial conducted by someone we can trust," they added.
Taking their plea into serious consideration, the High Court has instructed the State Government to review and decide upon their request within six weeks. Until then, the trial proceedings will remain on hold.
"The State shall consider the appointment of the suggested Special Prosecutor within six weeks," the court ordered.
"The trial will remain stayed until a decision is made," Justice Kunhikrishnan further added.
The petition was filed through Advocates Asaf Ali T. and Laliza T. Y., representing the victim’s family and key witnesses.
The official case is titled C. P. Muhammed and Others v. State of Kerala and Another and is registered under WP(Crl.) 480/2025.
This development marks a significant turn in a politically sensitive case that has drawn public and media attention since the incident in 2018. The court’s intervention ensures a pause in the legal process to uphold the fairness and credibility of the upcoming trial.
"Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done," the petitioners emphasized, echoing the long-standing principle of judicial transparency.
The next update on this case is expected once the State conveys its decision regarding the appointment of the Special Public Prosecutor, as per the court's directions.
Case Title: C. P. Muhammed and Others v State of Kerala and Another
Case No: WP(Crl.) 480/ 2025
