Abhimanyu Case: Accused Seek Closed-Door Trial

Kochi: The accused in the murder case of SFI leader Abhimanyu at Maharaja's College have sought a closed court trial, arguing that recording and circulation of visuals from the proceedings could affect their future if they are acquitted.

Sixteen accused approached the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court with the plea. The accused, who are Popular Front and Campus Front activists, have also sought restrictions on groups of Maharaja's College students gathering on the court premises.

The accused face charges including murder, attempt to murder, conspiracy, destruction of evidence and unlawful assembly.

Abhimanyu, a second-year degree student and SFI unit secretary at Maharaja's College, was killed by Popular Front and Campus Front activists on July 2, 2018.

The accused are J I Mohammed, Arif Bin Salim, Riyas Hussain, Bilal Saji, Farooq Amani, P M Rajeeb, Abdul Naser, Adil Bin Salim, Shifas, Sahal, Jisal Razak, Mohammed Shahim, Saneesh, Faiz, Tanzil and Sanid.

The chargesheet in the case was filed on September 25, 2018.