Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government on Tuesday ordered the premature release of Sherin Karanavar, an inmate at the Women Prison and Correctional Home in Kannur, following the recommendation of the prison’s Jail Advisory Committee.

Sherin was recommended for release by the advisory committee during its meeting on August 8, 2024. The Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services submitted the minutes of the meeting and supporting documents for the government's consideration. After examining the recommendation in detail, the government decided to remit the remaining period of her sentence, allowing her early release. The Home Department issued the order following the Governor’s approval of the Cabinet decision.The order, issued by Additional Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha, has been communicated to the State Police Chief, the Director General of Prisons, and the Superintendent of the Women’s Prison in Kannur, among others.

Sherin Karanavar, a native of Pathanapuram, was convicted in 2010 as the prime accused in the sensational murder of her father-in-law, Bhaskara Karanavar, in Chengannur—a crime reportedly driven by property disputes and complex personal relationships. Serving a life sentence, Sherin became eligible for remission after completing 14 years and was controversially granted early release following the Jail Advisory Committee's recommendation in 2024.

Her time in prison has been marked by multiple paroles and disciplinary issues, including a recent assault on a Nigerian inmate in February 2025. Sherin was previously transferred from two other prisons due to complaints from inmates and staff. She was first moved from Poojappura Central Jail to Viyyur, but was later shifted to Kannur Women’s Prison after disputes over her refusal to work and repeated conflicts with prison authorities.