Assault on T. J. Joseph

T. J. Joseph, a professor of Malayalam language at Newman College, Thodupuzha, set a question in the Malayalam internal examination paper for second-year BCom students in March 2010. In the examination, question number 11 asked students to punctuate a dialogue between a character and God, given below:{{cite web|url=http://www.hindujagruti.org/news/9126.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120308191239/http://www.hindujagruti.org/news/9126.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 March 2012 |title=Thodupuzha (Kerala) : Teacher held for inflammatory question paper – Attacks | publisher=Hindu Janajagruti Samiti|accessdate=12 May 2011}}

The passage was adapted from a lecture by Malayalam film director P. T. Kunju Muhammed that was in his book, Thirakathayude Reethisasthram (Methodology of Screenplay), published by Kerala State Institute of Languages.[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Newman:+Q+sourced+from+Kunhumohammed+article.-a0231057004 Newman: Q sourced from Kunhumohammed article. New Indian Express] {{dead link|date=October 2010}}{{Cite web |url=http://www.keralabhashainstitute.org/catalog.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=11 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100509081307/http://www.keralabhashainstitute.org/catalog.pdf |archive-date=9 May 2010 |url-status=dead }} In the original text, Kunju Muhammed explains a scene in his 1999 film Garshom, in which the character Nasarudheen, an NRI who has returned to India, is madly talking to himself. Kunju Muhammed based the character Nasarudheen on a person with schizophrenia he had met near the road who was talking to God.

T.J. Joseph named the character 'Muhammed' in the question paper, which was a reference to the author P.T. Kunju Muhammed, but it also made the text open to misinterpretation as a dialogue between God and the Islamic Prophet Muhammad.

The local edition of the Madhyamam newspaper reported the incident, sparking off the controversy alleging blasphemy. Several Muslim organisations protested the alleged defamation of Muhammed.[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Cops+on+the+lookout+for+college+professor.-a0222446478 Cops on the lookout for college professor. The New Indian Express] {{dead link|date=October 2010}} The Campus Front, the Popular Front of India's student wing, launched an agitation against the professor.{{cite web|url=http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?266163 |title=Wrong Question |publisher=Outlook |accessdate=12 May 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110610033750/http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?266163| archive-date= 10 June 2011 | url-status= live}} Student groups affiliated to the Indian National Congress and the Indian Union Muslim League also marched towards the college in protest.{{cite web |url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article263309.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208045158/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article263309.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 December 2015 |title=Kerala town tense after controversial exam paper |work=The New Indian Express |date=26 March 2010 |accessdate=12 May 2011}} Copies of the question paper were circulated in sensitive areas by various Muslim organisations.{{cite journal|journal=Frontline|title=Yet another blow|url=http://www.frontline.in/static/html/fl2720/stories/20101008272002500.htm|accessdate=6 March 2014|url-status=live|archive-date=22 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022205827/http://www.frontline.in/static/html/fl2720/stories/20101008272002500.htm|publisher=The Hindu Group|location=Thiruvananthapuram|last=Krishnakumar|first=R.|volume=27|issue=20|date=25 September – 8 October 2010}}

An all-party meeting called by the District Collector decided to recommend action against the professor responsible for incorporating the question that reportedly hurt the religious sentiments of the community.{{cite web|url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article264112.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312213638/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article264112.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2014 |title=Thodupuzha still under ban orders |work=The New Indian Express |date=28 March 2010 |accessdate=12 May 2011}}

The state police registered a case under Section 295 of the Indian Penal Code (for causing communal hatred) against the professor who subsequently absconded. The police then issued a lookout notice for him and arrested him a week later. He was then released on bail in April. The Newman College authorities also suspended him from the college and apologised for the mistake.{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/kerala-lecturer-attacked-over-question-paper-35676 |title=Kerala: Lecturer attacked over question paper |publisher=Ndtv.com |date=5 July 2010 |accessdate=12 May 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110613090954/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/kerala-lecturer-attacked-over-question-paper-35676| archive-date= 13 June 2011 | url-status= live}}[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/College+principal+faces+MGU+axe.-a0223337868 College principal faces MGU axe.] – The New Indian Express{{dead link|date=September 2021}}[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/College+teacher+held.-a0222911897 College teacher held.] The New Indian Express{{dead link|date=September 2021}}[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Cops+on+the+lookout+for+college+professor.-a0222446478 Cops on the lookout for college professor. The New Indian Express]{{dead link|date=September 2021}} His son was taken to hospital after being beaten up in police custody.Indiavision, 3 April 2010, 11:20 IST (5:50 UTC)

On 4 July 2010, a group of eight people in a Maruti Omni waylaid the professor near his home at Muvattupuzha. According to Joseph's sister, Stella Joseph, around eight people armed with swords and knives came in a van and waylaid their vehicle. They pulled out the lecturer after smashing the windscreen. They then chopped off his right hand and stabbed him in the left thigh. When they tried to stop the assault, she and her mother were attacked by the assailants who then detonated bombs and fled the scene.{{Cite news|title=Alleging blasphemy, fanatics hack lecturer's hand|work=The Times Of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Alleging-blasphemy-fanatics-hack-lecturers-hand/articleshow/6129146.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140731101940/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Alleging-blasphemy-fanatics-hack-lecturers-hand/articleshow/6129146.cms|archive-date=31 July 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article164133.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131106084316/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article164133.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=6 November 2013 |title=Controversial lecturer's palm chopped off |work=The New Indian Express |date=5 July 2010 |accessdate=12 May 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://www.mathrubhumi.com/english/news.php?id=94349 |title=Attackers cut off Newman college prof Joseph's hand |publisher=Mathrubhumi |date=4 July 2010 |accessdate=12 May 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716073428/http://www.mathrubhumi.com/english/news.php?id=94349 |archive-date=16 July 2011 }} According to police, the attack was carried out by an eight-member team consisting of Savad of Asamannoor, Pareeth of North Vazhakkulam, Shobin of Kothamangalam, Nazar of Aluva, Shajil of Muvattupuzha, Shamsuddin of Perumbavoor, Shanvas and Jamal.{{cite web |url=http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam+News&contentId=7767812&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@ |title=Home |publisher=Manorama Online |accessdate=12 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120307175130/http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam+News&contentId=7767812&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@ |archive-date=7 March 2012 |url-status=dead}}

A neighbour rushed Joseph to Nirmala Hospital where first aid was administered, while the severed hand was collected and packed in ice. Joseph was taken to the Specialists Hospital in Kochi where he underwent an operation that lasted 16 hours.

Joseph gave a media interview from his hospital bed, where he stated that he had used an extract from a university-approved book on the Malayalam language, and that his opponents did not give him an opportunity to explain the situation. He said that the naming of the village madcap as Muhammad had been done as a tribute to the original author, P. T. Kunju Muhammed. Joseph's family made a statement that they forgive the attackers.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/south_asia/10557819.stm |work=BBC News |title=India family 'forgives' attackers |date=8 July 2010 |accessdate=11 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100710214050/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/south_asia/10557819.stm |archive-date=10 July 2010 |url-status=live}}

On 24 July 2010, his suspension from the college was revoked by the Mahatma Gandhi University which described the issue as an "unintentional error". The attack on the teacher and his financial conditions were also considered.{{Cite web |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article531940.ece |title=Kerala Professor's suspension revoked – The Hindu |website=The Hindu |access-date=1 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100728074515/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article531940.ece |archive-date=28 July 2010 |url-status=dead }}

On 4 September 2010, the management of college terminated Professor Joseph from service with effect from September for hurting the religious sentiments of a community.{{cite news| url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/Kerala-church-faces-flak-for-sacking-professor/articleshow/6515910.cms | work=The Times of India | title=Kerala church faces flak for sacking professor | date=8 September 2010| accessdate= 7 September 2010 }}{{cite news| url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/the-sunday-et/dateline-india/Kerela-lecturer-sacked-after-attack/articleshow/6493711.cms | work=The Times of India | title=Features | date=5 September 2010| accessdate= 7 September 2010 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Kerala-professor-loses-job/H1-Article1-596074.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100907210750/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Kerala-professor-loses-job/H1-Article1-596074.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 September 2010 |title=Kerala professor loses job |work=Hindustan Times |date=4 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite news| url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/thiruvananthapuram/After-hand-Kerala-professor-loses-job-too/articleshow/6493913.cms | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103090013/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-05/thiruvananthapuram/28221181_1_newman-college-university-tribunal-t-j-joseph | url-status=live | archive-date=3 November 2012 | title=After hand, Kerala professor loses job too | date=5 September 2010| work=The Times of India | access-date= 7 September 2010 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/After-losing-right-hand-to-PFI--Kerala-teacher-loses-job/677435 |title=After losing right hand to PFI, Kerala teacher loses job |work=The Indian Express |date=5 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} Joseph, who expressed grief over the management decision, said that he never expected the same. He said that management has given the highest punishment for him and his family.[http://www.asianetindia.com/news/expected-termination-prof-tj-joseph_188165.html Never expected this, says Prof. T. J. Joseph] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100906223740/http://www.asianetindia.com/news/expected-termination-prof-tj-joseph_188165.html |date=6 September 2010 }} Terming the action of management as irrational, pro-Left writers, cultural forums and teachers unions came in support of the Professor.{{cite news| url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Support-pours-in-for-sacked-Kerala-lecturer/articleshow/6501469.cms | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103090019/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-05/india/28236416_1_radical-outfit-derogatory-reference-t-j-joseph | url-status=live | archive-date=3 November 2012 | title=Support pours in for sacked Kerala lecturer | date=5 September 2010| work=The Times of India | access-date= 7 September 2010 }}{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/lecturer-sacked-education-minister-reacts/130300-3.html?from=tn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013012741/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/lecturer-sacked-education-minister-reacts/130300-3.html?from=tn |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 October 2012 |title=Lecturer sacked: Education minister reacts – India News – IBNLive |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2010/09/05/stories/2010090558870100.htm |location=Chennai, India |title=Lecturer's dismissal irrational: Baby |date=5 September 2010 |accessdate=7 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100907013323/http://www.hindu.com/2010/09/05/stories/2010090558870100.htm |archive-date=7 September 2010 |work=The Hindu |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/support-pours-in-for-dismissed-kerala-professor-joseph-49804?trendingnow |title=Support pours in for dismissed Kerala professor Joseph |publisher=Ndtv.com |date=5 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110613090611/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/support-pours-in-for-dismissed-kerala-professor-joseph-49804?trendingnow| archive-date= 13 June 2011 | url-status= live}}

PFI leader Anas won the Vanchinad division of Vazhakkulam block in Ernakulam district in the civic body elections, while he was in judicial custody and lodged in the Viyyur central jail in connection with the case.{{cite web|title=Kerala man accused of chopping hand wins poll|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kerala-man-accused-of-chopping-hand-wins-poll/133952-37-64.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101101065320/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kerala-man-accused-of-chopping-hand-wins-poll/133952-37-64.html|accessdate=28 July 2011|publisher=IBN Live|archive-date=1 November 2010}}

On 19 March 2014, Joseph's wife Salomi (48), was found dead, having hanged herself at her residence. She had resorted to the extreme measure due to mental pressure over her husband not having been reinstated into the college. The family had been failing to make both ends meet with no regular income for a lengthy period of time.{{Cite web | url=http://www.kaumudiglobal.com/innerpage1.php?newsid=47835 |title = Kaumudi Online - English Edition}}

The state police arrested two activists of the Popular Front of India, Asharaf and Jaffer, on the same day. According to the police, Asharaf had been privy to the entire operation, and had arranged the vehicle used by the assailants. The vehicle was then reportedly handed over to Jaffer for dismantling.

On the night of 4 July, Aluva ASP J. Jayanath conducted a raid at the house of Mansoor, Eranakulam District Secretary of the Popular Front of India at Kunnathery, Aluva and seized documents and CDs which revealed the connection of PFI activists with the attack.{{Cite web |url=http://newfrontworld.com/2010/07/06/attack-on-blasphemous-lecturer-kerala-police-raid-popular-front-house/ |title=Archived copy |access-date=13 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310123812/http://newfrontworld.com/2010/07/06/attack-on-blasphemous-lecturer-kerala-police-raid-popular-front-house/ |archive-date=10 March 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://gulfnews.com/news/world/india/police-officer-probing-attack-on-professor-in-kerala-gets-death-threat-1.651043 |title=Police officer probing attack on professor in Kerala gets death threat |work=Gulf News |date=7 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} The State police was criticised when some of the officers of Ernakulam range made a deal with the Popular Front of India for ending investigation in the case. The move was reported to be thwarted by the involvement of state internal affairs minister. According to DGP Jacob Punnoose a new investigation team under Thrissur Crime Branch SP P.N. Unniraja was made in charge of investigation{{cite web|url=http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/mmonline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=7517675&tabId=1&programId=1080132912&channelId=-1073865030&BV_ID=@@@ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20110714030457/http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/mmonline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=7517675&tabId=1&programId=1080132912&channelId=-1073865030&BV_ID=@@@ |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 July 2011 |title=English News | Top Stories |publisher=Manorama Online |accessdate=28 July 2011}} Punnoose also informed that the crime was well-organised with pumping in money.{{cite web|url=http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/mmonline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=7511736&tabId=1&programId=1080132912&channelId=-1073865030&BV_ID=@@@ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20110714030526/http://english.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/mmonline.dll/portal/ep/contentView.do?contentId=7511736&tabId=1&programId=1080132912&channelId=-1073865030&BV_ID=@@@ |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 July 2011 |title=English News | Top Stories |publisher=Manorama Online |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

The Kerala State Police on 9 July 2010 issued 'look out notices' for three accused who absconded after the attack.

On 8 July 2010, a team led by Aluva ASP J Jayanath unearthed a gun from the house of Ayoob, a leader of the Popular Front of India.[http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Gun,+documents+seized+in+Aluva-a0231057020] {{dead link|date=September 2021}}

The state police also raided the houses and offices of Popular Front of India and its political arm Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI){{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/14/stories/2010071457930100.htm |location=Chennai, India |title=More bombs and weapons seized |date=14 July 2010 |accessdate=4 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100819081337/http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/14/stories/2010071457930100.htm |archive-date=19 August 2010 |work=The Hindu |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/article182401.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312213644/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/article182401.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2014 |title=Raids on PFI, SDPI offices across state ||work=The New Indian Express |date=14 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} at Muvattupuzha, Kothamangalam Perumbavoor, Chalakudy, Thrishur, Angamaly, Aluva, Cochin and Ernakulam.{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Kerala-Police-raid-offices-of-radical-Muslim-group/Article1-571778.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130125102152/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Kerala-Police-raid-offices-of-radical-Muslim-group/Article1-571778.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 January 2013 |title=Kerala Police raid offices of radical Muslim group |work=Hindustan Times |date=13 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

The Kerala state police seized explosives, country-made bombs, weapons and incriminating materials.{{cite news| url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Explosives-weapons-seized-near-Kerala-mosque/articleshow/6160395.cms | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811094756/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-07-13/india/28296095_1_pfi-anti-terror-explosives | url-status=live | archive-date=11 August 2011 | title=Explosives, weapons seized near Kerala mosque | date=13 July 2010| work=The Times of India | access-date= 4 August 2010 }}{{cite web|url=http://sify.com/news/bombs-knives-found-by-kerala-police-news-national-khmtacgagga.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811154213/http://www.sify.com/news/bombs-knives-found-by-kerala-police-news-national-khmtacgagga.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 August 2011 |title=Bombs, knives found by Kerala police |website=Sify |date=12 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite news| url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/More-explosives-found-as-police-raid-PFI-bases/articleshow/6159336.cms | work=The Times of India | title=Politics/Nation | date=12 July 2010| accessdate= 4 August 2010 }} A CD linked to al-Qaeda has also been seized from a PFI activist Kunjumon.{{cite web|url=http://sify.com/news/assault-on-kerala-professor-al-qaeda-cd-found-news-national-khjtEebfgdc.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100712120457/http://sify.com/news/assault-on-kerala-professor-al-qaeda-cd-found-news-national-khjtEebfgdc.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 July 2010 |title=Assault on Kerala professor: Al Qaeda CD found |website=Sify |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article525464.ece|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100722064152/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article525464.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=2010-07-22|title=The Hindu : States / Kerala : Assault on Professor Joseph: graphic images of two more suspects released|website=The Hindu |date=2010-07-22|access-date=2017-02-25}} The police eventually booked him under anti-terrorism laws.{{cite web|url=http://www.asianetindia.com/news/pfi-leader-kunhumon-booked-antiterror-laws_171699.html |title=PFI leader Kunhumon booked under Anti-terror laws |publisher=Asianetindia.com |date=9 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} It is reported to be a propaganda CD with brutal killing and torture of westerners.{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/81048/kerala-hc-hear-plea-against.html |title=Kerala HC to hear plea against Popular Front |work=Deccan Herald |date=13 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110629002157/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/81048/kerala-hc-hear-plea-against.html| archive-date= 29 June 2011 | url-status= live}}{{cite web |url=http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?687069 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120711082923/http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?687069 |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 July 2012 |title=Attack on Lecturer: PFI Men Arrested; Qaeda CD Seized |publisher=news.outlookindia.com |date=9 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.zeenews.com/news639736.html |title=Propaganda CD suspected to be that of al Qaeda seized |publisher=Zeenews.com |date=10 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} According to Police, the CDs have been in used condition and were used to train PFI activists to commit the crime. It also showed that the organisation had contact with international bodies.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/10/stories/2010071060660400.htm |location=Chennai, India |title=PFI might be proscribed |date=10 July 2010 |accessdate=4 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100820171843/http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/10/stories/2010071060660400.htm |archive-date=20 August 2010 |work=The Hindu |url-status=dead}} The CDs have been reported to be brought from either Afghanistan, Pakistan or the Gulf countries.{{cite web|last=Kanth |first=Ajay |url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article183526.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312213641/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article183526.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2014 |title=PFI rearing a 'fifth column' in state |publisher=The New Indian Express |date=2010-07-16 |accessdate=2013-05-24}}

Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, Muvattupuza, declared the absconding Popular Front of India leaders, K K Ali and Nazar as proclaimed offenders.{{cite web |url=http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?688891 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721011202/http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?688891 |url-status=dead |archive-date=21 July 2012 |title=Lecturer Attack: 2 Declared as Proclaimed Offenders |publisher=news.outlookindia.com |accessdate=28 July 2011 }}

A dentist, an active PFI worker, had been arrested on charges of sedition. Dr Raneef, a native of Aluva near Kochi, had given first aid to one of the assailants who was injured during the attack. Two books that speak against democracy have been recovered from the doctor, who had been associated with extremist activities since 2002. Copies of one of the seized books, Islam and Democracy, had been recovered from a Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) camp held in 2006 at Aluva.{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/PFI-leader-held-for-attack-on-lecturer/650095 |title=PFI leader held for attack on lecturer |work=The Indian Express |date=22 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 21 July 2010, the Kerala police arrested the Popular Front of India leader, who was suspected to be one of the conspirators behind the attack on the professor. Yunus, 33, a divisional leader of the PFI, was arraigned as the fourth accused in the case.

Based on the confessions of Yunus, cases of conspiracy have been registered against Shiyas, divisional secretary of PFI's Nellimattam unit in Ernakulam district and Mohammed Ali of Muvattupuzha, while a case has been registered against Latheef of Aluva and MoideenKutty of Valancherry in Malappuram district for harbouring some of the accused involved in the attack on Joseph.{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/national/four-more-arrested-lecturer-attack-case-534 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100723060036/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/national/four-more-arrested-lecturer-attack-case-534 |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 July 2010 |title=National News India, Latest Indian News |work=Deccan Chronicle|accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 13 August 2010, The Aluva police led by ASP J. Jayanath arrested six activists of the Popular Front of India while they were holding a meeting and attempting to distribute propaganda booklets. 320 copies of the book "Asavarnarkku Nallathu Islam", which contained material tarnishing Hindu and Christian religions, were seized from the hall where the meeting was being held.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2010/08/14/stories/2010081464460600.htm |location=Chennai, India |title=Six PFI activists held |date=14 August 2010 |accessdate=14 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100818090643/http://www.hindu.com/2010/08/14/stories/2010081464460600.htm |archive-date=18 August 2010 |work=The Hindu |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=http://www.indiaeveryday.com/kerala/fullnews-pfi-activists-held-in-periyar-valley-campus-1184-1685449.htm |title=Express Buzz | Express Kerala Breaking news – Kerala News Headlines |publisher=Indiaeveryday.com |accessdate=28 July 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20110721162351/http://www.indiaeveryday.com/kerala/fullnews-pfi-activists-held-in-periyar-valley-campus-1184-1685449.htm |archive-date=21 July 2011 |url-status=dead }}

On 15 August, police arrested Niyaz against whom a lookout notice had been issued in the case relating to the attack as he was travelling in a train from Tamil Nadu to Kerala. He was arrested when the train reached Shoranur.{{cite web|agency=PTI |url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article204483.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312213639/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article204483.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2014 |title=Kerala: One arrested in lecturer attack |publisher=The New Indian Express |date=2010-08-15 |accessdate=2013-05-24}} Niyas reportedly owned the Lancer car recovered by Aluva police from Kunjunnikkara on 29 July.{{cite web|url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article188876.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312213646/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/article188876.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2014 |title=Car used by accused recovered ||work=The New Indian Express |date=31 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 17 August, a police team led by Debesh Kumar Behera, ACP (South) raided Nanma books in Court Road, Kozhikode and a huge cache of books and compact discs containing incriminating and anti-national content were seized at the publishing firm.{{cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/article578170.ece | location=Chennai, India | work=The Hindu | title=Books, CDs seized | date=18 August 2010| accessdate= 18 August 2010 }}

P Abdul Hameed, Kerala state general secretary of the Popular Front of India, was questioned by the Special Investigation Team probing the hand-chopping case in Ernakulam on 17 August. Earlier on 16 August, Prof P Koya, chief editor of Thejas daily and member of PFI supreme council, was questioned at the Aluva police club by the SIT.{{cite web|url=http://twocircles.net/2010aug17/pfi_kerala_leader_questioned_hand_chopping_case.html |title=PFI Kerala leader questioned in the hand-chopping case |date=18 August 2010 |publisher=TwoCircles.net |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 19 August Special Investigation Team (SIT) officials questioned Nazeruddin Elamaram, President of the Popular Front of India at Muvattupuzha.{{cite web |url=http://news.chennaionline.com/national/Police-question-PFI-President/beb4a90a-e70b-4817-b9b3-6aa0fadcc949.col |title=Police question PFI President – Chennaionline News |publisher=News.chennaionline.com |date=19 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111005155125/http://news.chennaionline.com/national/Police-question-PFI-President/beb4a90a-e70b-4817-b9b3-6aa0fadcc949.col |archive-date=5 October 2011 |url-status=dead}}

Shamsuddin, one of the attackers in the team, who hails from Perumbavoor was arrested from Palakkad by the police on 20 August.{{cite web|author=Mamatha |url=http://news.oneindia.in/2010/08/20/prof-hand-chopping-case-attacker-arrested.html |title=Prof hand chopping case: Attacker arrested |publisher=News.oneindia.in |date=20 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} Based on the information provided by him police arrested Jamal from the Beemapally area in Thiruvananthapuram on 28 August.{{cite web|url=http://www.zeenews.com/news651350.html |title=Accused in Kerala lecturer attack case arrested |publisher=Zeenews.com |date=28 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://www.newkerala.com/news2/fullnews-30114.html |title=Sir Peter Blake wants to paint portrait of Kate Moss – World News, 30114 |publisher=Newkerala.com |accessdate=28 July 2011}} Announcing Jamal's arrest, SP P N Unnirajan, heading the SIT informed the newsmen that the trial of the case would be conducted in the special court in Ernakulam where the NIA cases were also handled.{{cite web|url=http://news.webindia123.com/news/articles/India/20100829/1575949.html |title=One more arrested in Prof Attack Case |publisher=News.webindia123.com |date=28 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 26 August the National Investigation Agency (NIA) informed the Kerala High Court that they are not planning to investigate the case as charges framed by the police does not cover anti-national terrorist activities.{{cite web|url=http://www.asianetindia.com/news/nia-probe-hand-chopping-case_185438.html |title=NIA not to probe hand chopping case |publisher=Asianetindia.com |date=26 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} On the same day SIT questioned M Usman, managing director of Thejas daily.{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/kerala/SIT-questions-businessman-regarding-attack-on-college-lecturer/Article1-592486.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018221633/http://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/kerala/SIT-questions-businessman-regarding-attack-on-college-lecturer/Article1-592486.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=18 October 2012 |title=SIT questions businessman regarding attack on college lecturer |work=Hindustan Times |date=27 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

KK Ali, who purchased the van which was used by the attackers, from Lawrance of Thrissur, two weeks prior to the attack was arrested by SIT from Pollachi on 30 August.{{cite web|url=http://www.zeenews.com/news651751.html |title=One more held in lecturer attack case |publisher=Zeenews.com |date=30 August 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

Police arrested Shobin, a B-Tech graduate of Kothamangalam, and Shanavaz alias Shemy of Valluvalli near North Paravur, from the Coimbatore railway station on 6 September.

On 6 September 2010, the Kerala Government informed the state high court that investigators found no evidence of a connection between the Popular Front of India with Hizbul Mujahideen, Lashkar-e Taiba (Let) or al-Qaeda.

{{Cite news

|title=Police probing PFI's alleged links with LeT, al-Qaeda & Hizbul

|newspaper=Deccan Herald

|date=6 September 2010

|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/Al-Qaeda-has-come-to-Kerala--Govt/677937/

| accessdate= 10 October 2010 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Police-probing-PFI-s-alleged-links-with-LeT-al-Qaeda-amp-Hizbul/Article1-597025.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130125201231/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Police-probing-PFI-s-alleged-links-with-LeT-al-Qaeda-amp-Hizbul/Article1-597025.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 January 2013 |title=Police probing PFI's alleged links with LeT, al-Qaeda & Hizbul |work=Hindustan Times |date=7 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 8 September the Kerala High Court dismissed the bail applications of seven activists of Popular Front of India- Siyad, Sikander, Kamarudeen, Abdul Lateef, Moideen Kutty, Shiyas and Mohammed Ali. Turning down their bail pleas, Justice V Ramkumar said the objective of the activity was to disturb harmony and tranquility of the society and to create fear. It would be held to be a terror activity.{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Attack-on-lecturer--HC-rejects-bail-plea-of-PFI-activists/679047 |title=Attack on lecturer: HC rejects bail plea of PFI activists |work=The Indian Express |date=8 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Lecturer-attack-case-HC-rejects-bail-plea-of-7-PFI-activists/Article1-597612.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130125233809/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Lecturer-attack-case-HC-rejects-bail-plea-of-7-PFI-activists/Article1-597612.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 January 2013 |title=Lecturer attack case: HC rejects bail plea of 7 PFI activists |work=Hindustan Times |date=8 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 15 September the Kerala government transferred four cases registered against PFI activists to the Internal Security Investigation Team (ISIT) which probes terrorism-related incidents.{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/internal-security-probe-team-to-handle-kerala-lecturer-s-case-52360 |title=Internal security probe team to handle Kerala lecturer's case |publisher=Ndtv.com |date=15 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110613091001/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/internal-security-probe-team-to-handle-kerala-lecturer-s-case-52360| archive-date= 13 June 2011 | url-status= live}}

On 17 September the Kerala High Court gave bail to Dr. Raneef. The complaint of Dr Raneef that the police conducted a raid at his residence and hospital to come out with allegedly incriminating CDs, leaflets etc. as he refused to oblige the Aluva ASP J. Jayanath to become an approver by confessing that he was a conspirator in the hand chopping case, was accepted by the court while considering his bail application.{{cite web|url=http://judis.nic.in/kerala/qrydisp.asp?tfnm=169133 |title=[missing title]|accessdate=25 September 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221211758/http://judis.nic.in/kerala/qrydisp.asp?tfnm=169133 |archive-date=21 February 2014 }}

On 7 October police arrested Pareeth of Vazhakkulam, who was directly involved in the attack from Mangalore in Karnataka.{{cite web|url=http://www.asianetindia.com/news/attack-lecturer-held-6_198709.html |title=Attack on Lecturer: One more held |publisher=Asianetindia.com |date=8 October 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011}} Some reports suggest that Pareeth, who was hiding in Mumbai actually surrendered before the police in a deal with PFI.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailypioneer.com/288544/Prof-attack-Another-key-accused-held.html |title=The Pioneer:: Home: >> Prof attack Another key accused held |work=The Pioneer|location=India |date=9 October 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110616070509/http://www.dailypioneer.com/288544/Prof-attack-Another-key-accused-held.html| archive-date= 16 June 2011 | url-status= live}}

On 3 January 2011 the Ernakulam Additional Sessions Court Judge V Shersy granted bail for the two main accused. Prime accused Jaffar (29) and second accused Ashraf (37) were granted bail on strict conditions. On the same day the Supreme Court bench comprising Js Markandey Katju and Dhyansudha Misra upheld the bail granted to Dr Raneef (ninth accused) by the Kerala High Court.{{cite web|url=http://twocircles.net/2011jan04/attack_lecturer_2_main_accused_get_bail_sc_upholds_bail_dr_raneef.html |title=Attack on lecturer: 2 main accused get bail, SC upholds bail to Dr Raneef |date=4 January 2011 |publisher=TwoCircles.net |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dailypioneer.com/307974/Prof-attack-Double-setback-for-Kerala-Police.html |title=The Pioneer:: Home: >> Prof attack Double setback for Kerala Police |work=The Pioneer|location=India |date=4 January 2011 |accessdate=28 July 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110616081818/http://www.dailypioneer.com/307974/Prof-attack-Double-setback-for-Kerala-Police.html| archive-date= 16 June 2011 | url-status= live}}

On 14 January police filed a charge sheet against 27 activists of the PFI accusing them of attempt to murder and other offences like IPC Sections 201 (causing disappearance of evidence), 202 (intentional omission to give information of offence), 212 (harbouring offender), 143 (unlawful assembly), 148 (rioting armed with deadly weapon), 120(B) (Criminal conspiracy) and 323 (causing hurt).{{cite web|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Hand-chopping-case--Charge-sheet-filed-against-27-accused/737464 |title=Hand chopping case: Charge sheet filed against 27 accused |work=The Indian Express |date=14 January 2011 |accessdate=28 July 2011}}

On 10 January 2024, after 13 years of absconding, one of the main accused Savad was arrested from a rented house in Kannur. He was produced before the NIA Special Court in Kochi on 11 January 2024.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kerala-professor-tj-joseph-hand-chopping-case-nia-nabs-first-accused-13-years-after-incident/article67725931.ece |title=Kerala Professor T.J. Joseph hand-chopping case: NIA nabs first accused 13 years after incident |newspaper=The Hindu |date=10 January 2024 }}

The Kerala State Assembly raised its voice in unison to strongly condemn the hacking of T. J. Joseph, by fundamentalist elements on the following day.[https://web.archive.org/web/20100709192733/http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/06/stories/2010070657770100.htm Assembly condemns attack in one voice – The Hindu]

Various Muslim organisations including the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) condemned the attacks as "against the tenets of Islam".[https://web.archive.org/web/20100709015109/http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/06/stories/2010070661721300.htm Attack against Islamic tenets: Muslim leaders][https://web.archive.org/web/20100708171158/http://www.hindu.com/2010/07/06/stories/2010070657111100.htm Two held for chopping off Ernakulam professor's palm] A rally under the banner of Muslim Aiykyavedi (Muslim United Front) was organised the next day in Muvattupuzha and Perumbavoor. They also blocked the local police station at Perumbavoor demanding the release of arrested Popular Front of India leaders. The protest though was dismissed by other Muslim organisations as a ploy by the Popular Front of India and challenged it to name any other organisation involved in the protest.{{Cite web |url=http://manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMONline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam%20News&programId=1073760382&contentId=7529850&contentType=EDITORIAL&tabId=11&BV_ID=@@@ |title=Hand chopping incident: CPM tries to gain political Advantage – Malayala Manorama |access-date=13 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714025918/http://manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMONline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam%20News&programId=1073760382&contentId=7529850&contentType=EDITORIAL&tabId=11&BV_ID=@@@ |archive-date=14 July 2011 |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |url=http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=7502697&tabId=11&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@ |title=Do not give religious colours to protest: SSF |access-date=13 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100711104256/http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentId=7502697&tabId=11&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@ |archive-date=11 July 2010 |url-status=dead }} A meeting of all the major Muslim organisations in Kerala proclaimed that the hand chopping incident has been a shame to the Muslim community in Kerala. They have also decided to isolate radical outfit like Popular Front of India.[http://mangalam.com/index.php?page=detail&nid=326546&lang=malayalam Hand Chopping incident shame to Muslims – Mangalam]

The Kothamangalam diocese demanded National Investigation Agency inquiry into the entire incident. The Bishop of Kothamangalam diocese, Mar George Punnakottil issued pastoral letters condemning the attack on Professor and demanding nabbing of culprits. The pastoral letter also defended the dismissal of the professor from the college. Prayer meetings and silent protest marches were also organised in various churches and locations.{{cite web |url=http://malayalam.deepikaglobal.com/CAT2_sub.asp?ccode=CAT2&newscode=126324 |publisher=Deepika.com |accessdate=28 July 2011 |title=Deepika.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709005841/http://malayalam.deepikaglobal.com/CAT2_sub.asp?ccode=CAT2&newscode=126324 |archive-date=9 July 2011 |url-status=dead }} Christian organisations like Global Council of Indian Christians and Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) condemned the act and demanded that the attackers be brought to justice soon and be exemplarily punished.{{cite web|author=Catholic Online |url=http://www.catholic.org/international/international_story.php?id=37228 |title=India: Christian Professor Has Hand and Arm Cut off for 'Blasphemy' against Muhammad – International – Catholic Online |publisher=Catholic.org |accessdate=28 July 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://www.ewtnnews.com/new.php?id=1116 |title=Indian Church spokesman appeals for peace after attack on Catholic professor |publisher=EWTN News |date=7 July 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100812061607/http://www.ewtnnews.com/new.php?id=1116| archive-date=12 August 2010| url-status= live}} The Newman fraternity made a public appeal to extend a helping hand to Prof. T. J. Joseph.{{cite web |author=New Man College – Thodupuzha |url=http://www.newmancollege.ac.in/Relieffund.html |title=Newman Fraternity Appeals to the public to help Prof. T. J. Joseph. |publisher=newmancollege.ac.in |accessdate=23 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331021716/http://www.newmancollege.ac.in/Relieffund.html |archive-date=31 March 2012 |url-status=dead}} However, the Catholic authorities of the college dismissed him from the job and defend their action.{{cite web |url=http://www.cathnewsindia.com/2010/09/12/bishop-defends-sacking-attacked-professor |title=Church circular defends dismissal of attacked professor |publisher=Cathnews India |date=12 September 2010 |accessdate=28 July 2011 }}{{Dead link|date=October 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

The Bharatiya Janata Party set up a four-member panel headed by Mr Harin Pathak (senior Supreme Court lawyer), Pinky Anand, Wilfred Misquita (Goa BJP vice-president) Advocate Balasubramanium Kamarasu. The Committee met with the members of family of Prof. Joseph to get a first-hand report on the sequence of events during the attack. They demanded a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the incident. Mr Harin Pathak alleged that the Kerala Government had failed miserably in combating terror and the State was becoming a breeding ground for terrorist activities. Pathak also demanded that outfits like the NDF and Popular Front of India should be banned and the State Government produce a white paper on the investigation into terror activities in the state. He also noted that his party would highlight the gruesome attack on Prof. Joseph in the upcoming session of the Indian Parliament.{{cite web |url=http://www.mathrubhumi.com/english/news.php?id=94669 |title=NIA should investigate Professor attack case : BJP |publisher=Mathrubhumi |date=2010-07-11 |accessdate=2013-05-24 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130128081923/http://www.mathrubhumi.com/english/news.php?id=94669 |archive-date=28 January 2013 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article181495.ece |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312224733/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article181495.ece |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 March 2014 |title=BJP seeks NIA probe into Taliban-style attack |publisher=The New Indian Express |date=2010-07-11 |accessdate=2013-05-24}}

The Hindu in its editorial said "Freedom of expression has increasingly come under attack from religious fanatics in democratic and secular India and it is the duty of society and the political system to intervene more effectively to defend those who are targeted even if they express unpopular views". The Hindu also noted in its editorial that "The act of a gang that cut off the hand of a college teacher, by wielding an axe on a thoroughfare in Kerala in broad daylight, had Talibanism writ all over it. This act of barbarism, however, points to the rise of bloodthirst driven by religious fundamentalism that certain fringe elements may be seeking to impose on the State. That it was a planned operation carried out with brutal intent adds to the shock.".{{cite news|url=http://thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/article503171.ece |location=Chennai, India |work=The Hindu |title=Mark of the Taliban |date=7 July 2010 |accessdate=11 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100709162906/http://thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/article503171.ece |archive-date=9 July 2010 |url-status=live}}

Littérateur M.N. Karasseri, himself a retired professor and someone who keeps tabs on Muslim politics, noted in an Outlook article, "The Muslim youth today are looking for idealism and adventure. They are being misguided by the proponents of Maududism that espouses a do-or-die battle for ensuring hukumathe ilahi (the rule of Allah). The SDPI (Socialist Democratic Party of India), Jamaat (Jamaat e Islami Hind) and several other outfits subscribe to this philosophy. If the rest of society does not realise the inherent danger, more Taliban-model reprisals will follow".

Progressive Muslim writer Hameed Chennamangaloor says in an article in The Economic Times, "the circumstances are ideal for fanatics to convince their community members here that the problems their community faces in Iraq or Afghanistan are their own problems. The fact is that the problems of even the Muslims in Kerala are quite different from their community members in northern states. Some of these groups have more funds than even mainline political parties like the Congress or the CPM, and can hire any number of hands".{{cite news| url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/Gay-pride-fanaticism-queer-the-pitch-in-Kerala/articleshow/6131213.cms | work=The Times of India | title=News By Industry | date=5 July 2010| accessdate= 12 July 2010 }}

Speaking of the extremists, at a press conference in Delhi, Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan controversially said: "They want to turn Kerala into a Muslim-majority state in 20 years. They are using money and other inducements to convert people to Islam. They even marry women from outside their community in order to increase the Muslim population."{{Cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/from-india-today-magazine/story/20100816-islamic-fundamentalists-rears-its-head-in-kerala-743749-2010-08-07|title=Islamic fundamentalists rears its head in Kerala}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/83631/bid-convert-kerala-muslim-state.html|title=Bid on to convert Kerala into a Muslim state: CM|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100728080950/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/83631/bid-convert-kerala-muslim-state.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2010-07-28}}

Syed Hyderali Shihab Thangal, president, Muslim League said that the extremists have done considerable damage to the community and that they have to be isolated.

Autobiography of Prof. T J Joseph titled Attupokatha Ormakal was published by DC Books in January 2020{{cite news | title=T.J. Joseph's book to hit stands soon | url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/tj-josephs-book-to-hit-stands-soon/article30428354.ece | work=The Hindu | date=30 December 2019}}{{cite news | title=Kerala professor whose hand was severed by PFI over a question, writes autobiography | url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/kerala-professor-whose-hand-was-severed-pfi-over-question-writes-autobiography-115012 | work=The News Minute | date=30 December 2019}}

On 15 November 2013 Joseph was acquitted of all charges by a court in Kerala.{{Cite web|url=http://www.asianews.it/news-en/TJ-Joseph,-Christian-teacher-accused-of-blasphemy-%28and-mutilated%29-is-fully-acquitted-29549.html|title = TJ Joseph, Christian teacher accused of blasphemy (And mutilated) is fully acquitted}}

In July 2013, criminal charges were brought against 37 people, of which 31 subsequently underwent trial in a special National Investigation Agency court, with the remaining 6 absconding.

On 8 May 2015, the court convicted 13 of the defendants, all activists of PFI,{{Cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/13-guilty-of-chopping-kerala-professors-hand/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611030608/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/13-guilty-of-chopping-kerala-professors-hand/|url-status=dead|archive-date=2016-06-11|title=13 guilty of chopping Kerala professor's hand {{!}} The Indian Express|date=2016-06-11|access-date=2017-02-25}} 10 of whom were sentenced to 8 years in jail, and 3 of whom were sentenced to 2 years in jail. A fine of {{INR}} 8 lakh was imposed on the convicted, to be paid to Joseph as compensation. The court acquitted the remaining 18 defendants due to insufficient evidence.{{cite news|url=http://www.ndtv.com/kerala-news/8-years-rigorous-imprisonment-to-10-men-in-kerala-professors-hand-chopping-case-761467|date=2015-05-08|agency=Press Trust of India|newspaper=NDTV|accessdate=2015-05-11|archive-date=2015-05-11 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150511100726/http://www.ndtv.com/kerala-news/8-years-rigorous-imprisonment-to-10-men-in-kerala-professors-hand-chopping-case-761467|title=10 Sentenced to 8 Years' Rigorous Imprisonment for Chopping Off Kerala Professor's Hand}}{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nia-court-sentences-10-to-8-years-in-jail-for-chopping-off-kerala-professor-s-hand/article1-1345094.aspx|title=10 sentenced to 8yrs in jail for chopping off Kerala professor's hand|accessdate=2015-05-11|date=2015-05-08|archive-date=2015-05-08|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150508100006/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nia-court-sentences-10-to-8-years-in-jail-for-chopping-off-kerala-professor-s-hand/article1-1345094.aspx|newspaper=Hindustan Times|location=Thiruvananthapuram|publisher=HT Media}}

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• {{cite web|title=Buy Attupokatha Ormakal at DC Books|url=https://onlinestore.dcbooks.com/books/attupokatha-ormakal#;}}

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