In a setback for the Communist Party of India (Marxist), a CBI court in Kochi on Thursday dismissed the discharge petitions filed by CPM leaders P Jayarajan and TV Rajesh in connection with the murder of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) activist Ariyil Shukoor in Kannur in 2012.

Jayarajan and Rajesh, who are the 32nd and 33rd accused in the case, had sought discharge, arguing that there was no evidence of their involvement. However, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) countered by stating that Shukoor was killed in retaliation for an attack on the vehicle carrying the two leaders. The agency also alleged that the conspiracy to murder Shukoor was planned by six individuals, including Jayarajan and Rajesh, while receiving treatment at a hospital following the attack.

After reviewing the evidence, the court ruled that sufficient proof exists against the two leaders, rejecting their pleas for discharge.

Shukoor was kidnapped and murdered in broad daylight near Pattuvam, Kannur, on February 20, 2012. His family had also opposed the discharge petitions, maintaining the involvement of the CPM leaders in the crime.