KOZHIKODE: The father of the main accused in the murder of Shahbaz in Thamarassery may also be named as an accused in the case. Reports had claimed that he has political and criminal connections. District Police Chief K.E. Baiju said that further confirmation could only be made after examining the digital evidence seized from the accused's house.

"There was a well-planned conspiracy behind the attack on Shahbaz. The accused did not plan it in a childish manner. All those involved in the murder have been arrested. We are now investigating whether more people were part of the conspiracy. Digital evidence is also being analyzed. The father of the main accused had been involved in criminal cases in the past. However, no murder charges have been found against him. The mental condition of those arrested needs to be assessed," Baiju said.

Meanwhile, Shahbaz’s father, Iqbal, has criticized the authorities for allowing the arrested accused to write their exams. "Those accused of such a crime should not have been allowed to write exams. This sends the wrong message. The main accused’s father has connections with quotation gangs. They should not be allowed to escape justice using their influence. This situation has caused us immense mental distress," he said.

Earlier, the Kerala Students Union (KSU) and Muslim Students Federation (MSF) staged a protest outside the observation home in Vellimadukunnu, opposing the decision to let the accused take their exams. The protest led to a clash between the demonstrators and the police, resulting in arrests.