'A True Hero': Kerala High Court Pays Tribute To Volunteer R. Rajesh Who Lost His Life During Flood Rescue Operations In Kannur
K. Salma Jennath
8 Aug 2026 12:27 PM IST
The Kerala High Court on Thursday paid tribute to R. Rajesh, a volunteer who lost his life while saving another person during the recent floods in Kannur, describing him as "a true hero" whose sacrifice was "supreme and unparalleled."
Justice Devan Ramachandran observed:
“Sri. R. Rajesh is a true hero, who exemplifies that the greatest love of all is the love that sacrifices all — that which is done out of love for another…It is reported that R. Rajesh handed over his jacket to another person during the rescue near Meenthully Island in Kannur last Sunday, ensuring his safety; but he himself was swept away by the strong current. When disaster strikes, men and women become capable of acts of pure heroism…This Court salutes the bravery of the pure soul and stands in prayer with his family.”
The Court further added that the government must also respond, considering the grief faced by Rajesh's family:
“The sacrifice of Sri. R. Rajesh is supreme and unparalleled. Words fail when we think about his family. The Government certainly must respond appositely, reflecting the extreme grief of the civil society.”
The Court made the observation while considering a review petition in connection with the upkeep of Perandoor Canal.
While hearing the case, it also remarked that Kochi has largely escaped serious flooding during the ongoing monsoon despite recent heavy rains, but cautioned that the respite should not be viewed as a victory, directing authorities to remain vigilant and continue preventive measures.
Case No: RP No. 165/2026 in WP(C) No. 2391/2018 & WP(C) No. 23911/2018
