Kerala High Court grants bail to 91-year-old booked for attacking his wife who accused him of illicit relationships

The Kerala High Court recently granted bail to 91-year-old man booked for stabbing his 88-year-old wife after she accused him of having illicit relationships with other women [Thevan v State of Kerala].While allowing the bail to accused Thevan, Justice PV Kunhikrishnan chose to give lessons to the couple on the importance of of accepting each other's differences to make a marriage work."The petitioner - Thevan should know that in his old age, his only strength will be his wife, Kunjali, aged 88 and Kunjali also should think that her only strength will be Thevan, aged 91. A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together, it is when imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences. Thevan and Kunjali should know that age does not dim the light of love, it only makes it shine brighter," the Court said. .On March 21, 2025, Kunjali allegedly accused her husband of having illicit relationships with other women.Thevan, unable to bear the repeated insults from his wife, attacked her with a knife, causing serious injuries.He was arrested the same day and booked under Sections 118(1) (Voluntarily causing grievous hurt by weapons) and 109(1) (attempt to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita..The Court, while considering the bail plea, observed that people depende on their partners during old age and highlighted the importance of companionship and mutual care at such an advanced stage of life."Let Thevan remember that only his wife will be there as a companion to him in his old age. Let Thevan and Kunjali complete their innings of life with happiness. For their happy life, the petitioner can be released on bail. This Court hopes that Thevan will take care of Kunjali and Kunjali will take care of Thevan.", the Court added.In a touching reflection, the Court quoted poet NN Kakkad's 'Saphalamee Yathra' and stated, "As we grow older, our love for each other only deepens."The Court expressed hope that the couple would reconcile and support each other."Let Thevan aged 91 live happily with Kunjali, his wife aged 88 in their old age. Let there be a happy life for them," the Court added while granting bail to Thevan..It directed Thevan to execute a bond of ₹50,000 with two solvent sureties and to cooperate with the investigation as and when required..Thevan was represented by advocates Subi K and Bijeesh Krishnan.Public Prosecutor G Sudheer appeared for the State..[Read Order]