The Kerala High Court, in its recent decision, granted bail to 19 students who were accused of abetting the suicide of a veterinary student earlier this year. The court noted a lack of substantial evidence indicating their direct involvement in instigating the victim to take his own life.

Justice C S Dias highlighted the absence of injuries on the victim's body corresponding to the alleged assault by the accused, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of the situation.

"On an overall consideration of the facts, the rival submissions made across the Bar and the materials placed on record, and my observations made above, I am of the definite view that the petitioners are entitled to be released on bail," Justice Dias said.

Furthermore, the court suggested that the accused may have intended to discipline the deceased rather than drive him to suicide. The decision to grant bail was also influenced by the fact that the accused had no prior criminal record and were students themselves.

They were released on bail upon fulfilling certain conditions, including monetary bonds and restrictions on leaving the state or influencing witnesses.

The case, initially handled by local authorities, was later transferred to the CBI at the request of the victim's family. Allegations surrounding the circumstances of the victim's death have sparked controversy, with conflicting accounts emerging from various sources. The incident has also triggered widespread protests, particularly against the SFI and the ruling Left government, by opposition parties and their supporters.