PALAKKAD: The family of M P Gopika (21), one of three people killed in the luxury car crash at Athani near Nedumbassery in the early hours of Sunday, has alleged that attempts are being made to sabotage the case and protect the accused, Suhail Sajeev, 19, by exploiting financial influence. Gopika’s father, M R Pradeep Kumar, an autorickshaw driver from Edakkurissi in Karimba, alleged that the case was being weakened and that crucial details, including the accused’s alleged drunkenness, had not been recorded in the FIR. Addressing reporters on Tuesday, the family expressed apprehension that external interference could undermine the investigation and deny them justice.
Pradeep said that when he visited Nedumbassery police station on the morning of the incident, he saw the accused lying inside a cell. He claimed that he had personally heard the circle inspector say that the accused was heavily drunk. The family questioned why the accused was allegedly sent to the Borstal School (a correctional institution for adolescent offenders) despite being involved in a crash that claimed three lives.
The family also raised questions over the collection of a blood sample from Gopika’s body even after the postmortem examination. “I was told that there was pressure from higher levels when I enquired about the procedure. Attempts were being made to defame Gopika on social media,” her father alleged.
A student who had served as vice-chairperson during her undergraduate studies at KMM College, Thrikkakara, Gopika regularly informed him about her whereabouts, Pradeep said. Describing her as a socially committed young woman, he said those who knew her would vouch for her character.
“Please ensure that my daughter gets justice,” Gopika’s mother, Sajitha, said, breaking down as she spoke about the loss.
Her paternal uncle, M R Anilkumar, also alleged that financial influence was being used to derail the case. Describing the incident as one that reflected a disregard for the lives of ordinary people, he urged the home department and the police to intervene firmly and ensure justice for the family.