Wayanad, India – In a tragic turn of events, the Wayanad Additional District and Session Court has handed down a capital punishment sentence to Arujun for the Nelliyambam double murder case. Arujun was convicted of killing retired physical education teacher Keshavan Nair and his wife Padmavati during a failed robbery attempt back in June 2021.
Initially, authorities believed that a two-member gang was responsible for the heinous crime. However, forensic evidence ultimately pointed to Arujun’s involvement in the brutal murders. Arujun, who had been working at hotels and resorts in Bengaluru and Chennai, had returned home during the lockdown period. On the day of the murder, he was seen working on a plantation until 6 pm. Nair, the victim, was known as a dedicated physical education teacher at schools in Panamaram and Neevaram.
The investigation revealed a chilling sequence of events that unfolded on the night of the crime. Arujun first tried to break into the victims’ house by manipulating the rear window bars. Upon spotting Nair watching TV inside, he then knocked on the front door, luring Nair outside into the yard. Seizing the opportunity, Arujun sneaked into the house and hid in one of the rooms.
As Arujun made his way through the darkened house, he accidentally stumbled over a vessel, alerting Nair to his presence. A fatal confrontation ensued, leading to the stabbing of both Nair and Padmavati. It was later determined that the intention was not premeditated murder but a robbery gone terribly wrong. Realizing the imminent death of the couple, Arujun abandoned his robbery attempt and made a swift escape from the scene.
The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of criminal actions and the devastating impact they can have on innocent lives. While justice has been served with Arujun’s sentencing, the community continues to mourn the loss of Keshavan Nair and Padmavati, who were senselessly taken away in a moment of greed and desperation. As the court proceedings conclude, the hope for healing and closure lingers in the hearts of those affected by this tragic event in Wayanad.