Kerala Govt announces Rs 5 lakh compensation for families of deceased in blasts at Jehovah's Witness Meet
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Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each family of the deceased who lost their lives in the serial blasts that occurred at the Jehovah's Witnesses community in Kalamassery, Kochi, on October 29. Additionally, there will be compensation for the medical expenses incurred by the victims.
The money will be paid from the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF).
The blasts killed five and left 17 others battling severe injuries. Investigations revealed that Dominic Martin, a former member disillusioned by the teachings of the community, claimed responsibility for the attack.
The immediate casualty was identified as Layona Paulose, a 60-year-old devotee from Kuruppampady. In the aftermath, four more lives were lost, including 12-year-old Libina, who succumbed a day after the blasts.
The toll continued to rise with the passing of Sally Pradeepan on November 12, along with two other women, 53-year-old Kumari from Thodupuzha and Molly Jolly of Kalamassery, in November.
Seventeen survivors, including Libina's brothers Praveen and Rahul, are still undergoing treatment in various hospitals.
Dominic Martin, charged with murder, explosives offences, and violations under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, is scheduled to appear in court today. The community now grapples with grief and shock, seeking solace and answers in the wake of this tragic event.