Ripper Chandran: 33 years since Kerala last executed death penalty

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Although there are 37 people awaiting death sentences in four jails across Kerala, the last death penalty was carried out 33 years ago when Ripper Chandran was hanged in Kannur Central Jail in 1991. He was found guilty of killing 14 people by slamming their heads with a hammer.

Azhakesan, a native of Kaliyikkavila, was the last person to be hanged in Poojappura Central Jail. It was in the year 1979. He was serving a jail term for killing toddlers for witchcraft. Those sentenced to death are usually lodged in Poojappura, Viyyur, Kannur Central Jails and Viyyur High Security Jail.

There are two gallows in Kannur and one in Poojapura to hang the prisoners. So far 26 people have been hanged in both places. At present, there are no executioners in any prison. If the death penalty has to be carried out, the executioner will be appointed with a reward of Rs 2 lakh.

Earlier, when interviews were conducted for the executioners, engineering graduates and MBAs participated. All those sentenced to death are awaiting appeals in the higher courts. The Supreme Court has ordered that the death penalty should not be imposed except in extreme cases.

For those sentenced to death :

• Parole will not be granted

• Jail work should be done

• Along with common prisoners

• Will be in solitary confinement

• Regular medical check-ups