ALAPPUZHA: Gopinathan Pillai of Thamarakulam, Nooranad, who sacrificed the better part of his life to get justice for his son Pranesh Kumar Pillai, was a true secular. Even though Pranesh fell in love with a Muslim girl from Maharashtra, Gopinathan was never against it and in fact, whole-heartedly supported Pranesh’s family.
“Gopinathan loved and supported Pranesh’s family. He donated the proper share of Pranesh’s ancestral property to his Muslim wife and three children. He often visited them in Pune, where they currently live,” said Madhavan Pillai, Gopinathan’s younger brother.“When she heard of the accident, Pranesh’s wife reached Nooranad with the kids on Thursday,” Madhavan said.
Seeking anonymity, another relative said, “Gopinathan Pillai fought for justice for over 15 years. Some top cops of Gujarat also helped him. He travelled to Gujarat on many occasions for trials or to give evidence,” the relative said.
In fact, his affection towards his son’s family had invited the ire of the local people at times. An NSS Karayogam in his locality ousted him from the treasurer’s post. A local resident said Gopinathan fully supported Pranesh’s family and was an apt example of communal harmony.“He allowed them to follow the Muslim way of life in his home here,” said a relative.