Kerala University Youth Festival bribery case: Accused 'Margamkali' judge found dead

KANNUR: A 'Margamkali' judge, who was accused of taking bribes in connection with the Kerala University Youth Festival held in Thiruvananthapuram, has been found dead. Kannur Chovva native PN Shaji (Poothatta Shaji-51) was found dead inside his house.

Shaji was found dead on Wednesday night. It is reported that he had consumed poison. A suicide note was also found near the body. Family members said that Shaji, who went inside his room and locked the door after breakfast, refused to have lunch in the afternoon.

Shaji is the first accused in the case registered by the Thiruvananthapuram Cantonment Police in connection with the bribery at the Kerala University Youth Festival. The police had served him a notice asking him to appear for questioning tomorrow.

The police had registered a case against four persons, including Shaji. Of the remaining three, two are dance teachers and one is an assistant. The results of the Margamkali competition had been withheld following the complaints. During the competition, the organisers had seized the mobile phone of the judges. They also alleged that Shaji was in touch with middlemen while the event was going on.

In the suicide note found in the house, Shaji has denied the allegation against him. He stated that he was innocent and had not taken any money from anyone.

"My mother knows I won't do anything wrong. Let God save those who plotted this," the note read.