Keenan Santos and Reuben Fernandez died in Mumbai in October 2011 while saving their friends from a group of men in Mumbai.
Highlights
- Keenan Santos and Reuben Fernandez were killed nearly five years ago
- They died trying to save their female friends from a group of molesters
- They were assaulted in full public view, nobody came forward to help
A special women's court in Mumbai that was expected to pronounce its verdict today in the Keenan Santos and Reuben Fernandez murder case has postponed the hearing till May 5, Thursday. The two died in Mumbai over four years ago, while saving their female friends from a group of men who tried to harass them.
Keenan Santos, 24, and Reuben Fernandez, 29, were attacked outside a popular eatery at Amboli in Mumbai's Andheri on October 20, 2011. A crowd watched even as the youngsters were assaulted in full public view.
After retreating initially, the group came back to the spot with over 10 aides and repeatedly stabbed the duo. Keenan died on the same day, Reuben died 10 days later.
"It takes nearly five years to get justice for a boy who has done something good in society. We have to beg for justice," says Keenan's father Valerian Santos.
Four men arrested after the incident in 2011 have been charged with murder and molestation. Several others who were arrested were charged with rioting but released on bail.
The case moved to a fast-track court in March 2012, but the prosecution took a year to frame charges. The trial finally began in January 2013, only to be transferred to a women's court two years later.
Keenan's father says only life sentence for the accused will provide the much needed closure to the two families fighting for justice for over four years.
"They should be given life imprisonment till death. Only then will they understand our suffering. We will suffer till our last breath," he said.