Kochi: Sukanth Suresh, the boyfriend and colleague of Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer, who recently died by suicide, has moved the High Court seeking anticipatory bail, alleging that her family’s opposition to their relationship led to her death.

The officer's family had earlier accused Sukanth of abetting her suicide, following which he went into hiding before approaching the court for protection from arrest. In his petition, Sukanth claimed he had no role in her death, describing their relationship as emotionally and mentally close. According to him, they had planned to marry and live together. He stated that she had informed her family about their decision, and his parents had even visited her house for marriage discussions. However, her family insisted on consulting an astrologer before making a final decision.

Sukanth alleged that after the consultation,  her family refused to disclose what was said and strongly opposed their relationship. He claimed that they blocked his mobile number and forbade her from communicating with him. This, he argued, left her deeply distressed, prompting her to leave home and move in with him. The couple allegedly rented a house near Nedumbassery airport and started living together.

According to Sukanth, the officer continued her job as usual and frequently discussed work matters with him. However, he later realised that she was under intense pressure from her parents, who were allegedly forcing her into another marriage.

Sukanth contended in his plea that if she died by suicide, it was due to the emotional distress and coercion inflicted by her family, not because of him. He maintained that he had no involvement in her death and instead saw himself as a grieving partner who had lost his girlfriend.

Although he has not yet been named an accused in the case, her family is reportedly pushing for his inclusion, which prompted him to seek anticipatory bail. They have also alleged that Sukanth frequently borrowed money from her and transferred her salary into his account. Additionally, they accused him of sexually assaulting her and have lodged a formal complaint in this regard.

The IB officer, a native of Pathanamthitta, was found dead on the railway tracks near the Chakka area on March 24. Pettah Police subsequently registered a case under Section 194 (police to enquire and report on suicide, etc.) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Sukanth submitted that he is completely innocent and has no connection with the alleged crime. Despite having no involvement in the incident, he has been wrongfully drawn into suspicion.

The petitioner expressed concern that, based on news reports, he might be implicated under Section 108 (abetment of suicide) of the BNSS. If so, he fears illegal arrest and detention.

Meanwhile, her parents have refuted Sukanth’s allegations, dismissing the arguments in his bail plea. They denied that his family ever visited their home for marriage discussions. The officer's father said they had even renovated their house in anticipation of Sukanth’s family visit, but they never turned up. The family further alleged that Sukanth had attempted to back out of the marriage proposal.