Kochi: The High Court asked how actor Mohanlal, the accused, can approach the court once morest the rejection of the government’s plea in the ivory case.
Legally, Mohanlal cannot file such a plea. Justice Mary Joseph clarified that only the government can approach the High Court with an appeal.
On June 9, the Perumbavoor Judicial First Class Magistrate’s Court rejected the government’s plea seeking permission to withdraw the case registered following income tax officials found two pairs of ivory tusks at Mohanlal’s residence in Thewara in 2011. Mohanlal’s petition once morest this is under consideration of the court.
The High Court verbally said that Mohanlal did not have an ownership certificate when the forest department officials filed the case. Moreover, there is a Public Interest Litigation in the High Court questioning the validity of the Certificate of Ownership.
Although Mohanlal requested to avoid appearing directly in the trial court, the single bench clarified that this request cannot be considered in the appeal petition. The plea was adjourned following Onam vacation for detailed argument.
