Kochi: The families of Kripesh and Sarathlal, along with the Congress party, expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI special court's verdict in the Periya double murder case. They stated that they had hoped for the death penalty for the first eight accused. They also argued that individuals like K V Kunhiraman, who were part of the conspiracy, received lighter sentences. The families said they would consult lawyers and Congress leaders before deciding to file an appeal.

"We had expected death sentence for at least a few of the accused. Still we are happy that double life imprisonment were given to 10 convicts. We will take up the next legal steps in consultation with Congress party," Kripesh's father P V Krishnan told media on the court premises.

Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan stated that with CPM leaders among the convicted, the party’s repeated claims of having no role in the murders held no ground. He assured the families that the Congress would support any decision to file an appeal.

“This was a brutal murder, an exceptional case. The families had hoped for the death penalty for the accused. In this context, we will decide on further steps after discussing with them. It is CPM's modus operandi to stifle political activity by others. These two young men were targeted because their public and philanthropic activities were gaining acceptance among the people,” Satheesan said.