Kollam, 19 March (H.S.): The Kollam Sessions Court is set to pronounce the sentence today in the high-profile murder case of Dr. Vandana Das, who was fatally stabbed while on duty at the Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital in May 2023. The court had earlier found the accused, Sandeep, guilty of the crime.

Dr. Vandana Das was attacked in the early hours of May 10, 2023, while working in the casualty ward of the hospital. The accused, Sandeep (44), a school teacher from Cherukarakonam in Velliyam, had been brought to the hospital by the Pooyappally police for medical examination. According to the prosecution, he turned violent inside the hospital and used a surgical knife to stab the doctor, leading to her death.

The shocking incident also left five others injured, including three police personnel who were present at the scene and attempted to restrain the accused.

During the trial, the prosecution presented a strong case, examining over 70 witnesses and submitting 207 documentary evidences before the court. After evaluating the evidence, the court upheld all the charges framed against Sandeep.

The defence had argued that the accused was suffering from mental illness at the time of the incident. However, the court rejected this claim, stating that there was no sufficient evidence to support the argument of mental instability.

The case had sparked widespread outrage across Kerala, raising serious concerns about the safety of healthcare professionals, especially those working in emergency settings.

With the conviction already secured, all eyes are now on the Sessions Court as it prepares to announce the quantum of punishment for the brutal killing that shook the state.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman