Santhan, released convict in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, dies in hospital
T Suthendraraja alias Santhan, one of the freed convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, has passed away at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital in Chennai, a hospital official said.
Last week, the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) under the Union Ministry of External Affairs provided an emergency travel document for 56-year-old Santhan, enabling his prompt repatriation to Sri Lanka.
It is reportedly said that Santhan suffered a cardiac arrest. He was diagnosed with cryptogenic cirrhosis, a condition unrelated to alcohol consumption that affects liver functioning.
Santhan, who was held in a special camp at the Tiruchy central prison, was scheduled to be accompanied by officials to the international airport for deportation.
Following Santhan’s request, the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission had previously issued a temporary travel document, and then the FRRO granted an exit permit for his departure.