Saji Cherian case: Crime Branch team to be appointed on Monday

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A Crime Branch team will be appointed on Monday to conduct a further probe into the anti-Constitution remarks made by Minister Saji Cherian. A team led by an SP is likely to be designated to conduct the further probe.

A senior official from the Crime Branch stated that they would not wait for the minister to appeal against the single bench's order and would proceed with the investigation. The High Court had overturned the lower court's decision to hastily acquit the minister before receiving key forensic evidence of the speech and the voice analysis report. The court also ordered that the investigation be conducted by an impartial officer, making it imperative for the Crime Branch to carry out a scientific investigation.

The case is filed under laws addressing disrespect to national honour. The relevant section prescribes up to three years of imprisonment and a fine for showing contempt toward the Constitution through writing, speech, or actions.