Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday assured that justice would be delivered to the family of Ramnarayan, a native of Chhattisgarh who died in an alleged mob lynching incident at Walayar in Palakkad district. Calling the incident deeply disturbing, the Chief Minister said such acts severely tarnish the image of Kerala as a progressive and socially conscious state and would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

In an official statement, Vijayan said strict and exemplary action would be taken against all those involved in the crime. He confirmed that a special investigation team, headed by the district police chief, has been constituted to probe the incident in detail. Instructions have been issued to thoroughly examine all aspects of the case and initiate appropriate legal proceedings without delay. The state government will also review the matter at the highest level and ensure suitable compensation for the victim’s family, he added.

The Chief Minister’s statement came amid mounting pressure from the opposition and the victim’s family. Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan wrote to the CM seeking immediate financial assistance for Ramnarayan’s family, while Congress leaders demanded that the case be investigated under stringent laws, including the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The 31-year-old labourer was allegedly beaten to death after being accused of theft at Kizhakeattappallam near Walayar. His family has demanded ₹25 lakh as compensation and initially refused to accept the body. So far, five people have been arrested in connection with the case. Ramnarayan was rushed to the Palakkad District Government Hospital following the assault, where he later succumbed to his injuries.