The Kerala High Court has granted 15 days of parole to a life convict to facilitate his marriage, recognising the steadfast love and commitment shown by his partner despite his incarceration.

Justice PV Kunhikrishnan, while deciding the criminal writ petition, said he was deeply moved by the courage and emotional strength of the woman who stood by the convict even after he was sentenced to life imprisonment.

“Even after the convict was sentenced to undergo life imprisonment, her love continues. In other words, she says, ‘You are my today, my tomorrow, and my forever.’ … This Court cannot neglect the brave stand of that girl who is ready to marry the convict, even though she knows that her partner is in jail and is undergoing life imprisonment,” the judge observed.

The Court was hearing a plea filed by the convict’s mother, seeking emergency parole for her son so he could get married on July 13, 2025. Noting the exceptional circumstances, the Court exercised its extraordinary powers under Article 226 of the Constitution to grant parole from July 12 to July 26.

Opening his order with a quote from poet Maya Angelou — “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” — Justice Kunhikrishnan reflected on the emotional depth and human dimension of the case.

The parole was earlier denied by jail authorities, who cited the absence of a specific provision in the Kerala Prisons and Correctional Services (Management) Rules to grant parole for a convict’s own marriage. The High Court, however, held that technicalities should not override justice in such humane circumstances.

“Let that girl be happy, and this Court showers all blessings upon her,” the Court said while granting the parole.

The convict, whose name is not disclosed, had been found guilty in a conspiracy and murder case. His family informed the Court that the marriage had been arranged prior to his conviction.

The Court directed the jail authorities to ensure the convict’s release for the specified period and mandated that he report back to prison by 4 PM on July 26, 2025.

Legal Representation:
The petitioner was represented by Advocates P Mohamed Sabah, Libin Stanley, Saipooja, Sadik Ismayil, R Gayathri, M Mahin Hamza, Alwin Joseph, and Benson Ambrose.
For the State: Senior Public Prosecutor Seetha S appeared.