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Govindachamy, the convict serving a life sentence in the high-profile Soumya rape and death case, escaped from the high-security cell of Kannur Central Jail in the early hours of Friday, triggering a massive manhunt across Kerala. The jailbreak was confirmed by prison officials and first reported by Manorama News.

According to authorities, Govindachamy—also known by the alias Charley Thomas—managed to cut through the iron bars of his cell in one of the most secure sections of the prison. His absence was discovered during a routine inspection around 7:15 AM, as per a report on Manorama. At the time of his escape, he was clad in standard prison clothing.

The Kerala Police have launched an intensive search operation and have urged the public to report any sightings. A helpline number (9446899506) has been issued for tip-offs, reported Mathrubhumi. The breach has raised serious concerns about the robustness of prison security in facilities meant to detain high-risk inmates.

A Case That Stirred The Nation

Govindachamy was convicted in the brutal 2011 rape and death of 23-year-old Soumya, who was attacked while traveling alone on a train from Ernakulam to Shoranur. The crime drew national outrage and led to a fast-tracked trial. In 2012, a special court in Thrissur sentenced him to death, a verdict later upheld by the Kerala High Court.

However, in 2016, the Supreme Court of India commuted the sentence to life imprisonment, citing lack of evidence to conclusively establish intent to murder. While the rape conviction stood, the apex court ruled out the murder charge.

Questions Over Security Protocols

Govindachamy, a native of Tamil Nadu with a prior criminal record, was held in one of Kerala’s most fortified prisons following his sentencing. Designed to house inmates convicted of heinous crimes, the facility enforces strict monitoring and restricted movement. His escape has sparked sharp criticism and calls for a thorough review of prison protocols and internal oversight mechanisms.