KOCHI: Union ministers George Kurian and Suresh Gopi on Wednesday visited the home of Sona Eldhose, the 23-year-old TTC student who died by suicide in Karukadom, Kothamangalam. They arrived separately, met the grieving family and offered condolences.
Speaking to reporters after his visit, George Kurian said there are clear legal procedures for the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to intervene. “The investigation is based on an FIR, and the NIA can step in only after completing related procedures. Political interference is not possible in such matters,” he said, adding that in cases of suspected ‘love jihad’, legal action must first be initiated at the state level.
Suresh Gopi said he would personally meet the state police chief to discuss the case and ensure the family’s concerns were addressed.
Meanwhile, the Ernakulam Rural police have widened their investigation in the case, examining all possible angles, including alleged forced religious conversion and ‘love jihad’. Recording of statements and collection of evidence are ongoing, said Sunil V R, station house officer (SHO) of Binanipuram station and a member of the special investigation team (SIT).
“As part of the probe, we recorded the detailed statement of the victim’s brother on Tuesday evening, as well as a common friend of the victim and the accused residing in Adimali,” he said.
Basil, the brother, confirmed that the SIT had visited their home. “I expressed concerns about my sister having been coerced into religious conversion. We believe the SIT will act on the evidence and statements, and that justice will be served,” he told the TNIE.
Basil added that the family is demanding an NIA probe, citing suspicions about accused Ramees — a 24-year-old from Alangad — and his family’s links to extremist outfits.
A police source said Ramees’ parents are absconding. Their disappearance comes as investigators move to charge them with abetment to suicide and had summoned them for interrogation.
Police are monitoring the parents, relatives, and close friends of the accused, and will summon them for questioning as the investigation progresses.