PG Manu, a former Senior Government Pleader of the Kerala government, was found dead at his residence in Kollam on Saturday in what police have confirmed as a case of suicide. His death comes amid mounting legal troubles, including multiple accusations of rape and a recent viral video that further escalated the controversy surrounding him.
Manu, once a prominent figure in the state’s legal circles, had been under intense scrutiny since 2023, when he was first accused of raping a woman who had approached him for legal advice. Following a formal complaint, an FIR was lodged against him under charges of rape and provisions of the Information Technology Act for allegedly distributing private images of the complainant.
After his arrest in January 2023 and a stint in judicial custody, Manu was granted bail in March 2023 by the Kerala High Court. One of the key conditions of his release was that he would not engage in any further criminal activity while out on bail. He had previously resigned from his post as Senior Government Pleader following the initiation of criminal proceedings.
However, the situation took a dramatic turn last week when a video surfaced showing a man accusing Manu of raping his wife, who too had allegedly visited Manu seeking legal assistance. The video, which quickly circulated within legal circles, led to widespread outrage and speculation that a fresh police complaint was imminent. Legal experts noted that a new FIR could have led to the cancellation of Manu’s bail and his return to judicial custody.
According to preliminary reports, Manu took his own life in anticipation of further legal action and public fallout. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances of his death.
