Kochi, 31 Oct (H.S.):

Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Saturday assured justice for the family of Jayabalakrishnan, who died in the Cheranalloor road accident, saying the government would ensure a thorough investigation without allowing anyone’s position or financial standing to influence proceedings.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the victim’s home, Chennithala said the investigation was progressing in the right direction and special care was being taken to prevent lapses. The family was currently satisfied with the probe, he added.

The minister said the prosecution would pursue the case firmly and had approached the district court challenging the bail granted to the juvenile accused. Further proceedings were before the court.

“The government stands fully with this family. Ensuring justice for the poor is its responsibility. There can be no distinction between the rich and the poor before the law,” he said.

Acknowledging the family’s concerns over the involvement of a judge’s child in the case, Chennithala said their apprehensions were understandable. He assured them that the law applied equally to judges and ordinary citizens.

The Chief Minister had visited the family on Friday, he noted, reiterating that the government was committed to ensuring justice.

Chennithala also said complaints about the effectiveness of laws dealing with motor accidents would be examined seriously.

Calling for stronger action against driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, he said innocent people were losing their lives because of such conduct.

The government would intensify enforcement, and the public should cooperate with police checks, he said, defending breathalyser tests as part of officers’ duties.

“People should not complain about being subjected to checks. The police are carrying out their responsibility,” he said.

The minister warned that violations would invite legal action and stressed that preventing deaths caused by intoxicated driving required both firm policing and cooperation from road users.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman