Loyal in 'marriage' and contended life; More about Kerala's Infamous criminal lawyer BA Aloor

People were fuming uncontrollably over the death of Soumya in 2011. The rage was so unprecedented that people demanded the public hanging of the culprit Govindachamy. At this time of upheaval and conundrum, a criminal lawyer emerged out from the dark to be the Govindachamy's saviour. Malayalees were shocked not just because of the lawyer’s decision, but the causal indifference and pride he took in publically announcing support for the murderer.

The name ‘BA Aloor’ gleamed in all channels for the rest of the days until the news faded out from public conscience. Nonetheless, Malayalees were introduced to a criminal lawyer, haloed by certain factions in society. The most sought-after Aloor appearing for a murder-accused beggar remains clouded in mystery.

People were shouting slogans against Aloor when the trial court sentenced Govindachamy to death in the Soumya case and when the Kerala High Court upheld the verdict. But when the case reached the Supreme Court, the game changed.

The shrewd court skills coupled with his savoir-faire helped Aloor complete his mission in the apex court. The Supreme Court commuted the death sentence of Govindachamy, a convict in the brutal rape and murder case of 23-year-old Soumya, to life imprisonment.

Aloor also appeared for the accused in the case of the law student who was murdered in Perumbavoor. Later, he appeared for Pulsar Suni in the actress attack case and for Baban Saikia, an accused in the Infosys murder case.

Aloor enrolled as a lawyer in 1999 and practised in various courts in Kerala for four years. Fixated over criminal cases, Aloor soon trudged the path and found his niche. His decision to shift to Pune from Kerala is considered a catalyst that overhauled his perception of life.

Aloor remained a bachelor throughout his life as he feared marriage would cut short his career growth.

“I do not need a wife and child to remain happy in life.” Aloor’s words from a recent interview.

Aloor was no stranger to threats and expletives from social media. Despite this, the criminal lawyer managed to grace a ubiquitous strange smile and was least perturbed about the threats. Like he said once “I am married to my profession”, Aloor till his last day remained loyal to his ‘marriage’.

BA Aloor's funeral will be held on April 30th at 5 pm at his residence in Thrissur.