Accidents’ tribunal awards ₹1.15 crore to survivor in Chorod hit-and-run case

The Vadakara Motor Accident Claims Tribunal has directed an insurance company to pay Rs 1.15 crore as compensation to nine-year-old Drishana, who remained in coma for nearly a year following a devastating hit-and-run accident in Chorod in February 2024, following which her grandmother Puthalath Baby also died.

This decision could provide a crucial financial lifeline for Drishana’s ongoing intensive medical care. Police identified the accused as Methil Punathil Shajeel, a resident of Purameri. It was determined that the vehicle in question belonged to a white Maruti Suzuki Swift with plate number KL 18 R 1846. Shajeel was caught by the police at the Coimbatore International Airport in February 2025, but he reportedly fled to Dubai after the incident.

The District Crime Branch filed a criminal complaint in the Vadakara First Class Magistrate’s Court on February 15, 2025. Criminal case against accused Shajeel is ongoing in Vadakara court. Shajeel is currently out on bail and is facing charges under sections of the Indian Penal Code, including culpable homicide and causing grievous hurt.

The accident occurred when Drishana and Baby were crossing the road after getting off the bus. A speeding car hit them both, killing Baby on the spot. Drishana, a Class 5 student, fell into a coma after suffering a serious head injury.