KOCHI, APRIL 12, 2025– In a case that blends law with life lessons, the Kerala High Court has granted bail to a 91-year-old man, Thevan, who was arrested for allegedly stabbing his 88-year-old wife, Kunjali, following an altercation over accusations of infidelity.
The Court, while allowing the bail plea, delivered a heartfelt message on the importance of love, tolerance, and mutual care in old age.
INCIDENT AND CHARGES
On March 21, 2025, Thevan allegedly attacked his wife with a knife after she repeatedly accused him of having illicit relationships with other women. The incident caused serious injuries to Kunjali.
Following the attack, Thevan was arrested and booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, specifically:
- Section 118(1) – Voluntarily causing grievous hurt by weapons, and
- Section 109(1) – Attempt to murder.
COURT’S OBSERVATIONS ON MARRIAGE AND OLD AGE
While considering the bail plea, Justice PV Kunhikrishnan used the opportunity to deliver a moving reflection on relationships and aging.
“The petitioner – Thevan should know that in his old age, his only strength will be his wife, Kunjali, aged 88 and Kunjali also should think that her only strength will be Thevan, aged 91. A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together, it is when imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences. Thevan and Kunjali should know that age does not dim the light of love, it only makes it shine brighter,” the Court stated.
HOPE FOR RECONCILIATION
Justice Kunhikrishnan emphasized that companionship is often the only solace in old age and expressed hope that the couple would support each other in the remaining years of their life.
“Let Thevan remember that only his wife will be there as a companion to him in his old age. Let Thevan and Kunjali complete their innings of life with happiness. For their happy life, the petitioner can be released on bail. This Court hopes that Thevan will take care of Kunjali and Kunjali will take care of Thevan.”
QUOTING LITERATURE: NN KAKKAD’S POETIC TOUCH
In an emotional gesture, the Court quoted renowned Malayalam poet NN Kakkad’s work Saphalamee Yathra, reflecting on the enduring nature of love in later years:
“As we grow older, our love for each other only deepens.”
BAIL CONDITIONS AND LEGAL REPRESENTATION
- The Court granted bail on the condition that Thevan:
- Execute a bond of ₹50,000,
- Provide two solvent sureties, and
- Cooperate with the investigation whenever required.
Thevan was represented by advocates Subi K and Bijeesh Krishnan, while Public Prosecutor G Sudheer appeared for the State.
FINAL WORDS FROM THE COURT
Concluding the judgment with hope, Justice Kunhikrishnan stated:
“Let Thevan aged 91 live happily with Kunjali, his wife aged 88 in their old age. Let there be a happy life for them.”
