KOCHI: The High Court has granted permission to two life time prisoners, Pattakka Suresh Babu from Kannur Chimeni Jail and V Vinoy from Kannur Jail to continue their LLB studies online. They had requested a suspension of their sentences and parole to complete their law studies. The order was issued by a division bench consisting of Justice AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice Dr Kausar Edappagath.

The court has decided not to grant parole to those serving prison terms for murder cases, as there is no exceptional circumstance to do so. However, the jail superintendents have proposed allowing them to attend their classes under certain conditions including posting a bond of one lakh rupees when they need to appear for examinations and practical training.

Suresh Babu was admitted to Kuttipuram KMCT and Vinoy got admission to Poothotta SN Law College with their classes starting on November 6.

MG and Calicut universities have stated that online LLB courses are currently prohibited, but they are willing to facilitate online classes if directed by the court. The Bar Council has clarified that the petitioners cannot be enrolled as advocates without completing a regular course from a recognized university.

The Division Bench emphasized that prisoners should not be denied their constitutional rights, except for their liberty. They referred to Supreme Court orders that highlight the right of prisoners to live with dignity. The petitioners approached the court seeking education which is essential for personal development. The purpose of imprisonment is to reform and rehabilitate offenders, and education plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. It will help prisoners make the most of their time in prison and lead better lives upon release. Despite UGC regulations against online classes, the high court clarified that providing such a facility to students in special circumstances does not violate the regulations.