Advocate AP Vasavan: Justice Meets Humanity

Among the rare class of legal professionals who place humanity, justice and honesty on an equal footing along with law, Advocate AP Vasavan of the High Court of Kerala deserves special mention.

During his career spanning 23 years, he has the distinction of having won fair verdicts in several controversial cases. To him goes the credit of handling more than 10,000 cases, including more than 1,000 sessions cases and 14 murder and POCSO cases. The eldest of three children of Prabhakaran and Radha in Palakkal in Thrissur district, Vasavan completed his school and college studies in his home district and then went on to graduate in law from BMS Law College in Bengaluru. He has been practising since 2001. With such a remarkable journey behind him, Advocate AP Vasavan sits down to share insights into his career, philosophy, and the dynamics of the legal system, illuminating the path for future legal practitioners. 

Can you share with us a particularly challenging case you handled and how complex was it? 

The most complex and challenging cases often involve POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences). However, the Thrissur POCSO case, which garnered significant attention, is worth a mention. In this case, the defendant’s unwavering belief in his innocence was surprising. Proving innocence in POCSO cases is particularly tough, as these proceedings prioritise the victim's account. The victim had provided substantial evidence against the accused. However, as the trial unfolded, it was revealed that the victim had implicated the boy to protect someone else. Ultimately, the accused was exonerated, and the court acquitted him unconditionally. This case underscores the principle that with determination, it is possible to unveil the truth and establish innocence.

What reforms are the need of the hour to overhaul the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system?