Keralam govt. to pay ₹12.5 lakh compensation to Muthanga custodial torture victim

Image for the purpose of representation. | Photo Credit: File

The Keralam government has sanctioned ₹12.5 lakh in compensation to K.K. Surendran, a teacher who was subjected to custodial torture after his arrest in connection with the Muthanga land agitation of 2003.

It has also ordered the recovery of the compensation from the personal assets of two former police officers who were held responsible for his illegal arrest and torture.

Complying with the judgement delivered by the Additional District Court-II, Kalpetta, the government has decided against pursuing further legal proceedings, despite the government pleader’s recommendation to appeal against the judgement.

The decision brings a measure of relief to Mr. Surendran after a 23-year legal battle over his arrest, custodial torture and the injuries and reputational damage he suffered.

According to the order issued by the Home Department, the compensation will carry interest at 6% per annum from the date of filing the original suit until the amount is fully realised.