No... No... Don't!
No!
No! Let me go!
News just-in! In the forest area of Lovedale, Ooty this morning...
Two men have been shot to death by an unidentified woman.
The leaked videos are causing terror in public.
The incident was captured in the camera of a foreign tourist.
Here's the report on why that woman shot them dead.
She kidnapped a 10 year old, by placing a gun to her head.
The shootout ensued after a struggle trying to save the kid.
The prime witness is a tea stall owner called Ram.
To scrutinize the movement of elephants in the area...
the Forest Department has installed CCTV cameras.
Here's the footage, exclusively from those cameras.
A child kidnapper enters the city!
Police have released the possible sketch of the killer.
Two men were shot dead, trying to save a child.
This killer is on a child-kidnapping spree.
Police in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have been alerted to hunt her down.
More children go missing in Ooty.
Public is holding protests across the city.
Parents are furious about their missing children.
My baby went to school and never returned.
What is the Government doing?
When are you going to find the kids, sir?
Please calm down, people.
Hold on!
Have some patience.
How could you even say that?
She kidnapped a little girl and killed two men in the process.
Would you calm down if it was your kid?
We don't even know if the kid's safe.
Kids have been going missing since a month in Ooty.
What is your police department doing?
We will keep up the fight till those kids return home safely.
We shall fight! We shall fight till our last breath!
In the tussle that occurred Ooty this morning...
the child kidnapper has been shot dead by the police.
Her name was Jyoti.
Police received a hint that she was escaping in the Jaipur Express.
So we arrested her in the Tiruppur railway station.
The kidnapped child wasn't with her at the time.
Upon enquiry, she confessed that she hid the child in Lovedale.
When we went there and checked...
The child was already dead, where her body and face were completely disfigured.
While our team was recovering the body...
She shot us with a pistol that she had hidden in reach.
We had to shoot back in defense.
Also, she confessed to the kidnapping and shooting of two men.
Sources say that Jyoti had lived in this house in the Angry Bird area in Ooty.
Sir, who is this woman Jyoti? Why is she killing innocent children?
Who is behind her?
Jyoti belongs to the Northern part of India.
She hails from Jaipur.
She's a psycho killer.
Investigation revealed that she's been charged with child kidnapping cases...
in Jaipur as well.
She had been staying here for a while, kidnapping children and torturing them.
The little girl, who is her most recent victim...
is suspected to be one of the kidnapped children.
What's the suspicion about? She's definitely an outsider.
I was sweeping the porch. Kids were playing outside.
My son went and gave them chocolates.
She came running, snatched the chocolates from him and knocked him down.
I asked her why she did so.
She said something in her mother tongue and kidnapped the child.
Yes, sir. I witnessed the whole scene.
Authorities have taken into custody many weapons and clothes with blood stains.
Sniffer dogs have led the party to the empty land behind Jyoti's place.
Police have started digging there.
Guys! Dig here.
Move out of the way!
I feel there's something here.
Make it quick.
Alas!
She didn't even spare little kids.
My baby!
Oh, no!
Move! Give way!
I said move! Come on!
Let me get a look at my baby.
That cruel woman deserves to die.
I can't endure this.
Oh, god!!!
Sir, let go! I have to see my baby.
Oh, god!
Oh, my baby! You've left us.
Where did you go, my baby?
Sir...
Sir, how long? The case is still not filed. -Hold on, woman. I said wait!
It's a guy. Not a girl.
Sir, I'm hungry. -What did you even do that you're so hungry?
First type that shit without any errors.
Make sure my mother-in-law is locked away for good. -Sure.
You've got money, right? Anything is possible.
Hello, ma'am. -Hmm.
Oh, lord! Please don't send any terrorism cases my way.
Wow! Swachch Bharat (Clean India)!
I love the name, bro.
Bro, get me two tea.
Hey, guys. I was looking all over for you.
Get me three tea.
Come. Come.
Lawyer sir, looks like you're going to get this man locked away.
You convinced him that this case is credible.
Now he's doing the same to me.
Is it Petition Peddi Raju's case? -Yes.
How do you know?
You looked at me and my stall surprisingly when you came. -Yes, we did.
He's the reason behind it.
Here you go, sir.
I ended up having to spend 10,000 rupees because of him.
We can't take it easy just because it's a fly, man.
Don't say man.
Sorry, Your Honor.
Flies and mosquitoes are spreading many diseases in the country.
You speak. -Yes, man.
Pardon me. Yes, Your Honor.
A fly in a cup of tea cannot be overlooked.
I've paid you to speak. Do that! -Hold on. I will.
Your Honor, it's the fly's mistake that it fell into a cup of tea.
What can the tea stall guy do about it?
To be fair, the case should be filed on the fly.
Because our cases are so vaguely based...
Our city is being torn apart like worn out briefs.
See that, Your Honor? He's comparing our administration to a man's briefs.
He takes zero hygienic measures at his stall. And now he's blaming the fly?
Take you for example. You come from an authentic background.
The tea you're served is from his stall only.
Give it some thought.
What if it was a lizard in your tea next time?
He didn't just the Judge a big time scare.
He got this board placed in the name of Swachch Bharat.
I guess that makes our case way better.
Does he have nothing else to do?
Looting money is basically his job.
Him and his daughter are in it together.
I can't begin to say.
What's up? Is this your new look?
Like always, didn't you check the fuel meter on your bike?
Alright. I'll stop.
Did you bring the photo? Hope you didn't forget.
You just want your work done, huh?
Thanks, dear.
How dare they smuggle ration under Petition Peddi Raju's watch?
I'm not going to spare you guys!
What? -They're still following us. Let's go, dad.
"Many simple questions Can we find the answers?"
"Many paths to walk on Is there a way for you lead?"
"Earth is our friend Don't mean to do harm"
"Time shall accompany you wherever you go"
"Keep going and you shall reach your goal"
"Believe in your self till you reach the destination"
Yay! Biscuits!
Vennela!
Why did you get so scared?
"Ah, the beauty of those blooming flowers"
"Mom is the creeper that holds everything together"
Hey, Vennela! What did you teach my son?
He yelled 'Bad Touch' when my mother-in-law tried to give him a bath.
If my mother-in-law sees me...
"She keeps you safe in your youth"
"God descends to Earth in the form of a mother"
"She's like a lamp that spreads light no matter what"
"Just for you"
"Mother is like God who's visible to you"
"Mother is the driving force in life"
"She helps you get through the tough times"
"She makes you fight for your dreams"
"Withered flowers shall bloom again for you someday"
"Your time shall come Keep the faith"
Hello, sir. -Greetings can wait
Where's your owner?
He's at a party meeting, sir.
Alright. Give me one nice cup of tea.
I'll call you once I reach Chennai.
Sir, where were you for a week?
Your daughter was not of much help.
I told you there's a hearing coming up.
If we would've settled this case yesterday, we'd have made 30,000 rupees.
Cool down.
I went to Chennai regarding something important.
That's not it. That will be the only case I'll be dealing with now.
You handle all these petty cases here on.
Hold on.
What's so important about that case than me?
I'm going in there to find out exactly that.
You can follow me if you're curious. -What is he talking about?
Next!
SC no. 1352.
Petition submitted by Petition Peddi Raju.
Hello, sir.
In Ooty, in the month of May in 2004...
Jyoti has kidnapped and murdered 5 little kids brutally.
Jyoti's case?! What is he saying?
It has been appealed in the Chennai High Court...
and has been transferred to the Ooty Magistrate for a verdict.
Vennela Peddi Raju will be the advocate on this one.
What? Seriously?!
Why did you take up a case like this?
You'd do all kinds of odd things for publicity till now.
I'd argue those cases with you, as I had nothing else to do.
That doesn't mean you do this.
Tomorrow, every parent who has lost their child will show up at Court.
How are you going to face them?
Shame on you!
I shouldn't have agreed to work with you in the first place.
The case will be verified on the 23rd of next month.
Hey, Peddi Raju! You've got your hands on a big case.
She's a lady who murdered little kids brutally.
When this news came out, everyone in Ooty was terrified.
But you've signed her as your client.
You think this is fair on your part?
If a dog barks, little does it mean that every visitor is a thief.
Whatever!
Government has announced relief programs to recover from the recent cyclone.
Reputed Social Leader belonging to Coimbatore...
Founder-Rohit Company & Trust, Varadaraju...
has given the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu a cheque for 1 crore.
1 crore! I was with him that day.
I know.
Psycho Jyoti's case that had created a sensation in Ooty 15 years ago...
has been reopened in the Ooty Court of Law today.
In the 2004 case of children being kidnapped and murdered in Ooty...
Police have killed a North Indian woman called Jyoti in an encounter.
To top that off... -Bro, sir is coming.
It has created a sensation worldwide.
Hello, sir. -They're here for your help.
Hello, sir. -Greetings, sir.
Make sure they get the help they need. -Sure, sir.
Studying well should be your only focus. -Okay, sir.
Come see me if you need any help in the future. -Thanks a lot, sir.
Now get going.
Bring it. Quick.
What is your opinion on reopening Jyoti's case after 15 years?
She killed a little girl without any mercy.
Is she hoping for publicity with this case?
They say it's her right because it's a goddamn democracy.
If a female lawyer's first case is going to be so controversial...
Imagine what lengths she'd go to for publicity.
You can't just keep giving criminals a chance to defend themselves.
We won't let this case reopen. She has to take it back.
Vennela... -Down! Down!
Ma'am, tell us why you took up this case.
You've reopened a case that was shut 15 years ago.
Do you know what you're getting yourself into?
Answer us.
Tell us something about this case.
Why are you in on this case?
She's a criminal who killed little kids.
How could you be her advocate?
How will you walk back home with only one sandal?
SC no. 1352.
Did the petitioner's advocate bring High Court's order?
If we start this at 10 and you ask for an extension at 10:30...
I'm going to be pissed.
Vennela, proceed with your argument.
Thank you, Your Honor.
I can understand the hatred and fury I see on everyone's faces here.
I know how sensitive this case is.
Each case demands a lot of argument, prosecution and evidence.
But when it comes to the truth, it's not even a requirement.
A girl was raped and murdered in Assam a few years back.
Police claimed to have arrested a convict based on the evidence.
While they held him at the station during the investigation...
Public found out and demolished the station entrance to attack the guy.
They went as far as killing him.
Every news article read that the girl victim was served justice.
Though the convict was brought to the station on the same day as the tragedy...
Enquiry commission concluded that he had nothing to do with that girl.
Hold that thought.
What are you even comparing this case to?
This case didn't end with the public getting furious.
It was closed after a well driven investigation 15 years back.
I don't understand why we need to reopen it.
Psycho Jyoti is... -Sir, that's a term Media has coined for her.
It's a huge mistake coming it out out your mouth, that too in court.
High Court has performed a well driven investigation and then forwarded it here.
The fact that you're questioning it is... Contempt of Court.
It means...
You just insulted this Court.
Sit down, sir. Let her finish.
Damn it!
Huge errors have been made in every case that we get highly emotional about.
There are a few facts about this case that have been put away.
I request you to look into it with much solidity, Your Honor.
Proceed.
I'd like to question the prime eye witness in this case. Raman.
Greetings, Your Honor.
Mr. Raman...
You were the only eye witness at the site of the incident, yes?
That's right.
What were you doing there that day?
I was performing a prayer.
I'm telling the truth.
My tea stall is in close proximity to where the incident occurred.
I was offering my prayers after I had opened the stall.
Do you remember what all happened that day?
Like it was today, ma'am.
I opened the stall comparatively early that morning.
It was quite cold, the weather.
As all the roads were covered in fog...
There wasn't much human traffic on the streets.
Then I heard a girl scream for help from a distance.
I went there and looked.
I saw a girl drag that little girl away.
That's when those two men got down from a car.
They heard the little girl scream and tried to help her.
She instantly pulled a gun out.
I was terrified.
Those two men also got scared and ran away.
She shot one of them down.
The second man tried to get into the car and escape.
She shot him when he was inside the car itself.
My heart dropped to the floor when I witnessed it.
I was horrified and so, I hid from her.
Due to God's grace, she couldn't see me from across all the fog.
You're narrating a tight-knit story, just like in the video.
No, ma'am. Whatever I said on video was exactly what I witnessed.
Even when I think of it now, my body starts shivering.
Alright. Forget about that.
People call you with a different name, right?
The thing is, I'm a die hard fan of Mr. PVP Rama Murthy.
Oh! -I help him with anything he needs.
So people gave me this nickname 'All in All Raman'.
That's what my tea stall is also called. -You love him so much, huh?
You bet. I even got his name tattooed.
There are quite a few pictures of you both at the tea stall, right?
Yes. I make sure I get a picture with him on his birthday every year.
I put up all those pictures in my stall.
But in 2004, I didn't get a picture.
I said nothing about that.
You're only saying it.
I wanted to share... -Your Honor!
All in All Raman clicks a picture with his idol every year.
But he says he didn't get one in 2004.
Why?
Objection, Your Honor.
That question has no credibility, Your Honor.
He might have been busy.
I see no point.
I'll tell you what my point is.
Objection overruled.
On May 5th, 2004...
People's Leader Rama Murthy's birthday celebrations took place in Chennai.
On this occasion, Raman clicked a picture with him like every other year.
You're seeing it right now.
He has the exact same photo in his tea stall as well.
On May 5th, 2004...
you were the eye witness to two murders and a kidnapping.
You ran home in shock because you were terrified.
How did you happen to get this picture clicked then?
Your Honor, those pictures aren't admissible and you know it.
Mr. Prosecutor, the witness doesn't have anything to say.
No, ma'am. The thing is... -What are you trying to say?
You lied on the stand.
You weren't at the site of murder.
You haven't seen anything with your naked eye.
Just a while ago, he testified that Jyoti couldn't see him because of the fog.
In that case, how could Raman identify Jyoti in that fog?
One eye witness beats 1000 pieces of evidence in submission.
But it is quite clear that the eye witness is fabricated.
There have been many such errors in Jyoti's case.
Police didn't investigate the evidence or witnesses.
They fabricated everything.
I have another question.
Jyoti was said to be encountered, as she shot the cops with a pistol.
I get it.
But only the FIR states that she used a pistol.
Police mentioned zero details about that weapon.
So, there should be an investigation on the police team that handled this case.
Your Honor, I need an extension to collect material objects details in this case.
Come on! You're talking like a kid now.
When you appear for such criminal cases...
The least you could do is gather every piece of information there is.
In the next hearing, I want all the details on the list submitted to me.
And I want the police team assigned to this case present here.
Okay, sir.
Who'd expect that I'd be asked to submit something from 15 years ago?
Next hearing is scheduled on the 3rd of next month.
The court is adjourned.
[singing randomly]
Sir...
Fish fry, is it? -Yes, sir.
Did you add the spices? -Yes.
Very good. -I'll be right with you.
What are you looking at me for?
Hey! How many times have I told you?
Don't gulp down the entire peg in one go.
I can't help it, man.
I needed something to keep me warm.
And before I knew it, I had an entire bottle.
Yeah, right. I know you.
Cheers!
Anandam, if it weren't for you and whiskey...
I'd have spent my entire life being a Judge who overworked himself.
Man! You've been saying the same crap since school.
You have everything you want.
You're the Official Judge for the Government.
Don't make me angry.
My daughter's getting married in a month.
As days pass, so does the money.
On top of everything, I got this case.
Just when I thought money was the only problem...
This case comes along.
You refused all the money that came your way because you're honest.
You're no good at taking advantage of the situation.
Your wife and kids aren't going to respect you for that.
Enough said!
When will you realize the value of honesty?
Okay. I'll get going then.
Hey! Hold on.
You might slip and fall in the dark. I can't deal with your family then.
Hello.
Okay.
Sir, Mr. Varadaraju is here.
Hi, sir. Welcome.
Hello. -I didn't expect you to come.
It's my job to make an official appearance at such functions.
Thank you.
Let me take that, sir.
Why do you look dull, sir?
It's like I have everything but nothing at the same time.
What's the point of having so much power and stature?
I lost my wife.
Even my son, whom I loved dearly.
Despite that, I wanted to do good for people.
But some stranger comes along and ruins that for me.
Oh. So you're disturbed because of this case.
Ratnam... -Sir.
I need to talk to you in private.
Sure.
Ratnam! I'm not used to asking people for a favor.
Here, sir.
You should get this job done for me.
Go home and take rest, sir. I'll handle it.
Thank you.
Go to Mr. Varadaraju's office tomorrow.
Collect the files related to this case.
Send me the phone number of Alexander who is handling this case.
Why are you looking at me weirdly? -I haven't seen you so submissive!
Above all, we have more important cases than this.
-So, I thought... -Listen!
We can depose people in power.
But never oppose those who create a position of power for themselves.
He didn't come begging me to bag this case.
He insisted that I should be the one arguing it.
If I'm more than willing...
it means we will benefit greatly from this case.
See what I mean?
Golden opportunity! -Super, sir!
Shameless Court Owner!
Pay and then help yourself to a bun.
I am a reputed landlord.
Is that how you talk to me?
Let me win this case.
I'll evict you, first thing.
And then I'll get back at this court.
-Hello, sir. -Hello, uncle.
Greetings!
-Sir, would you like tea? -Forget the tea.
What's up with this man?
Is he creating a scene claiming this land belongs to him?
You guessed it right. Please be my guest.
Listen to me, Zameen.
Our entire nation is dependent on the court.
From a petty theft case to a felon conviction...
Celebrity or nonentity, this is the place for a verdict.
When that's the case...
if you roam around threatening to evict the court...
I'll submit a petition claiming to be one of the heirs of this land.
Make sure you're put behind bars.
An audio tape of Public Prosecutor in Ooty was leaked online.
And so, he has been dismissed from his post.
He has been replaced with a reputed lawyer from Chennai, Raja Ratnam...
by the District Collector.
Now who's scared.
My mind is so disturbed, dad.
Is it because Raja Ratnam will be handling this case?
No, dad.
Officers of the law are being replaced easily.
Only because they are loaded with money and might, right?
We got into this case pretty well knowing they'd do this.
Let's do it in good faith.
We'll wait for our time.
But, bear this in mind.
Raja Ratnam will try and manipulate the facts, just to win this case.
You must be very careful...
Because this is our only chance.
I understand.
This is just another case for him.
But all these years...
I was waiting for this one case and this one case only.
But...
He should never find out about our strength, dad.
Don't worry about that, dear.
I'll take care.
Looks like it's going to pour heavily.
Mom will be waiting to eat with us.
Yes, dad. -Let's go home.
Please get us a divorce, sir.
[indistinct voices]
Sir... Sir...
Where's the case headed?
Give us an update about the case, sir.
Hi sir.
Sir, just one selfie, please.
I'm a die-hard fan of yours.
Sir, I'll post it on Facebook and tag you.
The other day you said it's a sin to do this.
Are you here today to take notes on what a great lawyer my daughter is?
Hello, Mr.Raja Ratnam. How are you?
I'm fine, sir. How are you?
I'm doing good.
Okay, Raja Ratnam sir.
In the last hearing, Vennela had asked for certain details.
I'm sure you're familiar.
Yes, sir.
You can proceed. -Thank you, sir!
So, I think I've taken up this crucial case at the most critical time.
If I had been negligent even for a second...
our advocate would have passed off criminal Jyoti as Mother Teresa's sister.
Usually, we make the witness swear in to speak only the truth.
But, not even once have advocates like us swore in.
So for the first time, I ask the defense lawyer to swear in.
First eye witness, Raman.
Poor man! He truthfully narrated then what he had witnessed.
He did the same yet again.
Honest man!
She has shown a stamp sized photo, as if it's a historic piece of evidence!
Photo is original. But it wasn't taken on the 5th...
but on May 3rd!
As Mr. Ramamurthy won that year in the Parliament election...
his birthday and his electoral victory were celebrated on the same day.
That photo, which was taken on the 3rd, was published in the papers on the 5th.
-Your Honor. -Calm down and please sit.
I know what you're about to say.
You'll say this was taken on the 5th, correct?
Your Honor...
Murugan, who is standing next to Raman in this photo...
died in an accident on the night of May 3rd, after meeting his leader.
His wife is here as witness.
Hello, sir.
This is his death certificate.
So, Your Honor... if this photo was taken on the 5th like Vennela ma'am claims...
Murugan's ghost must have posed for the camera.
I say it with much humility.
Coming to the next thing...
The gun used by Jyoti.
In an accident in 2007...
all the documents and evidence in a case burned to ashes in the Ooty police station.
That case is also being handled by this court.
Our defense lawyer, who knew all these details vividly...
raised it as a major doubt.
Now she wants to use it to her advantage in this case.
Police station burned down. Include the missing documents as well.
Vennela, any objection?
No, Your Honor!
The inspector who handled this case and the current DSP Mr. Alexander...
I'd like to interrogate them. -Okay, proceed.
Hello, sir.
The night of May 6th...
were you the one who arrested Jyoti at Tiruppur railway station?
Yes, I did. Along with my team.
We searched day and night and finally arrested her in Tiruppur.
How long does it take to travel from Ooty to Tiruppur?
Three and a half hours.
How did you know that Jyoti intended to escape from Tiruppur?
Highly confidential, ma’am.
Department's secret.
I can't share it in public.
A criminal who was being hunted by police forces all over town.
How could she have travelled from Ooty to Tiruppur without grabbing attention?
We searched for her in every nook and corner.
Her strength was to mingle with people and be discreet.
Actually criminals think much more smartly than us, ma'am.
Do you have the habit of watching super hero movies, sir?
I'm a police officer, ma'am.
I don't believe in super heroes. I depend on reality.
But reality is missing in the way you dealt with this case, sir.
When you arrest a lady, you must take a lady constable along.
Why didn't you?
A lady constable was not available in the station that day.
We had to arrest the accused at once.
Time was running short.
So we left immediately. -Forget that.
What time did you arrest Jyoti? Where did you get her confession?
Any photo or video evidence that she confessed?
You haven't added any of it in your documents. Why?
You know, actually, ma'am...
if your creative juices are flowing, go and write a novel.
Don't ask me such silly questions.
Didn't you write one in Jyoti's case?
I mean a novel!
I certainly can't make it as interesting as yours.
Stick to only answering my questions.
Objection, Your Honor!
Isn't this the first case for our defense lawyer?
That's why she is treating everyone like a criminal.
Even after knowing a child is struggling for her life...
is it possible to follow procedures the way she expects?
We didn't have mobiles then to shoot videos in a snap.
A photographer from the department had to come to click a photo or shoot a video.
We didn't have the opportunity.
So, they took Jyoti's confession as a written statement.
No point asking unnecessary questions and wasting time, Your Honor.
This is a very sensitive case.
You must've seen the video related to Jyoti's case innumerable times.
I ask the court's permission to play that video once more today.
Proceed!
Ma'am do you know whom you are defending?
A psycho killer from North India, who kidnapped and killed little kids brutally.
If his team had missed nabbing her...
she'd have killed so many more kids in many more towns.
Miss Vennela...
you reopened this case.
In the next hearing...
I want you to produce proper evidence, if any, like Mr. Raja Ratnam did.
Don't disrespect higher officials in the name of questioning them.
I'll have to dismiss the case. Next hearing will be on the day after tomorrow!
Court is adjourned!
Come here, woman.
You did a good job. Here's your payment.
-How can you pay me so less? -We'll get to it next time.
Sir, it was superb! You rocked, sir.
You are the best lawyer in the world, sir.
Something is fishy.
Collect all the details about her as soon as possible.
Okay, sir.
Why didn't you present your counter?
Raja Ratnam is trying to involve me in his game.
[indistinct voices]
What is it? No, thank you.
You there! She was my only child.
You're defending a psycho killer who killed my little girl?
How did you have the heart to do it?
I've been in deep agony for 15 years. -Go away, woman.
Come, Vennela. -How will a gold digger know anything about it?
Karma will get back to you. I curse you!
'How will a gold digger know anything about it?'
Karma will get back to you. I curse you!
Vennela...
Vennela, are you still thinking about it?
So many people have maligned us ever since we reopened this case.
They have passed nasty comments.
I also had a slipper thrown at me.
But I wasn't affected one bit, dad.
But that mother's cry of anguish...
I can't take it casually, dad.
Hurts like hell!
Vennela, aren't you fighting this case for that woman as well?
They will only hurt you and humiliate you more.
They will even rip you into pieces.
But when you think of Jyoti's anguish, we can handle this, dear.
This is her diary.
You know every entry in there.
Still, go through it once more.
Put yourself in the place of Jyoti.
Only when you personalize an experience...
you feel the depth of that pain.
Vennela, don't think you are fighting this cause for Jyoti.
Think you are in Jyoti's shoes and fight!
Only then will your ambition grow stronger.
No one can defeat you.
Take this.
'Everyone wishes to flap their wings and fly freely in the sky.'
'I had the same desire.'
'He was the man who brought my desire to life.'
'He and his love for me made me believe even men can be angels, messengers of God.'
'We were happy about new beginnings. New hopes. New lives.'
But it was just for 6 months.'
'In the name of honor killing, they killed my husband right in front of my eyes.'
In a life wrapped in darkness, I restarted my journey all alone...
for the other angel in my life'
[baby crying]
"Your little self has been a blessing for me"
"You made me blossom with happiness"
"I will dedicate my life to you"
"I just want you to be with me like my breath"
"You've brought paradise to Earth for me"
"You've made my dreams come true"
"I see hope for my life within you"
"You're the breath that fills life into my existence"
"You're the shining light of the house"
"You're the smile that makes pain vanish"
"You've brought great joy into my life"
"You've made the small things matter more"
"I want to spend my whole life watching you"
"I am your guardian angel in totality"
"You're an extension of myself"
Hello.
These are the contact details of Peddi Raju in Koti.
Go and meet him.
Why are you looking so sad, mom?
Your grandparents are selling this house and moving to another city with their son.
We are also moving to a new city.
I'm there for you. I'll take good care of you.
My darling princess!
Come here.
Study well. -Hmm.
See you, auntie. -Bye grandma!
"Let's go on this journey together"
"Let's go beyond the shore"
"This is all for you"
"My existence too"
"In this life or any other"
"You're my baby and forever will be"
"I am your mother, always by your side. Also your father as your friend and guide!"
"I am your path to victory My dearest crowning glory!"
"There's a new world out there, waiting for you"
Your wind beneath the wings I will be!"
"Let me embrace you with love"
In the past few days, many children have gone missing in the Nilgiri district.
Parents have been cautioned to keep a close watch on their kids by the police.
"If you get upset with me"
"I'll happily make it up to you"
"Tick your wish-list till the very end!"
"Let me get mischievous with you"
"I shall bear a palanquin for you"
"I have the pleasure of having you in my life"
"Aren't you such a blessing?"
"You're my Princess"
"My Angel on Earth"
'Rehta tha' -'Ragata tha'!
It's Hindi. 'Rehta tha'!
-'Ragata tha'. -It's 'Rehta tha'.
Vennela!
It's getting late. We need to be in court.
-Come and get ready. -Coming, dad.
Your Honor, regarding Jyoti, who is the 'accused' in this case...
Raja Ratnam sir has been emphasizing on something ever since he came.
That Jyoti is a child kidnapper from North India.
The police official handling this case mentioned a child kidnapped in Jaipur.
But I am stating this fact, Jyoti is not a North Indian.
What! Do you realize what you are saying?
The whole world knows she is a murderer from North India.
Do you have any evidence to substantiate your statement?
Of course, sir.
I have evidence, Your Honor.
To close a case easily when a criminal can't be captured...
branding them as North Indians has become a norm for some cops.
People naturally resent it when they hear of a North Indian's involvement.
Jyoti was branded a North Indian to intensify people's hatred against her.
To prove my statement...
I request the court to allow me to interrogate Sri Valli as my next witness.
Sir. How can this be allowed without a pre-intimation letter?
I think you became a lawyer watching court scenes in movies!
According to Section #311, anyone can be called as witness once they attend court.
Hello, sir.
Disclose your details.
I am Sri Valli, ma'am.
My hometown is Melur near Madurai.
My husband's name is Ramalingam.
We have two sons.
Our son Durapandi lives with his family in Madurai.
Our daughter is Sakthi Jyoti.
We call her fondly as Jyoti.
Who is Jyoti?
Tell the court what happened to her.
What can I say?
So happy we raised our first born daughter with so much love.
When she was
she fell in love with a boy from another caste and eloped with him.
My husband is particular about caste.
He is prepared to give up anything.
But not when it comes to caste.
One day, when that boy was returning home from work...
they killed him ruthlessly.
They went in search of my daughter with the same fervor to kill her.
I thought they must have succeeded.
But I just realized that she has escaped.
Year 2004.
A lady by name Jyoti.
News about her kidnapping children and killing them was the talk of the town.
Aren't you aware of anything regarding that?
After my daughter-in-law threw me out of the house...
I had no option but to reside in a hermitage in Vedaranyam.
I lived in a secluded space.
I got to know the details from you only after I came here today.
Your Honor, Jyoti, who was declared to be a North Indian...
is the daughter of Sri Valli and Ramalingam, who hail from this city.
Raja Ratnam sir, you can now cross examine the witness!
Thank you, Your Honor.
What is your daughter's full name?
Sakthi Jyoti!
Doesn't she have a surname?
Doesn't matter. Do you have at least a photo of her?
My husband burnt all her belongings the day she eloped, sir.
You bombard us with a 1000 questions about the station that really burnt down.
Should I believe this lie now?
You shared a lot of details about your family history.
But you didn't elaborate about Jyoti's childhood.
She was a girl with a golden heart.
She won't dream of hurting even a fly, sir.
Your daughter Jyoti, who would never dream of hurting even a fly,
went ahead and killed so many little kids.
She isn't that kind of girl, sir.
But society believes she was a killer.
I am sure that is a fabrication, sir. My daughter is nothing like that.
Maybe it is someone else, sir.
Please don't cry.
That's all, Your Honor!
Their own witness is refuting it.
Poor soul!
Imagine summoning a lady as witness who has gone through so much trauma.
And using a mother's anguish to her selfish advantage.
Jyoti of this case could be Jyoti Patel.
Jyoti Agarwal or even Jyoti Kapoor.
But that Jyoti is not Sakthi Jyoti!
In the court of law, I know very well you'll insist evidence is important, sir.
To prove Sakthi Jyoti is the Jyoti in this case...
As my next witness, I would like you to permit me to interrogate Mr. Peddi Raju.
Is the time now 4:20?
She's calling a fraud as witness for a fraud case.
Mr. Raja Ratnam...
...if a criminal like you can defend a criminal case...
...why can't I be the witness for a fraudulent case?
Did you notice the reaction?
Silence!
Peddi Raju, whatever you want to say, come here and speak up.
Speak up, sir.
Do you know the accused Jyoti in this case?
I knew her very well.
Your Honor, I hail from Ooty.
I travel often to Chennai for business reasons.
I got acquainted with a client in one of those trips.
He belongs to Jaipur.
He told me Jyoti was working in his house in Jaipur.
She had to return to this city due to unforeseen circumstances.
He asked me to help him then.
That was how Jyoti came here.
Later while talking to her, I came to know...
she lost her husband to the cruel custom of 'honor killing'.
Because she was pregnant then...
with the sole intention of saving her baby, she had to leave this city.
She told me that was how she landed in Jaipur.
Other than that, she is not a North Indian as specified in the police records.
She was born and raised here.
I got her a job as accountant in Ooty.
I got her daughter enrolled in a school.
I arranged a place to stay close to my residence.
She has the necessary evidence for whatever I stated now.
I have also attached her diary along with this, Your Honor.
So, Mr Peddi Raju...
If it is true you wanted to help Jyoti, the girl you raised...
where were you on the day Jyoti was killed in a police encounter?
Why didn't you confess to the police on the same day?
So, you are a partner in the crime connived by Jyoti.
You have a major share in it too. Am I right?
Don't be hasty, Raja Ratnam and I haven't finished as yet.
Your Honor!
4th of May, 2004.
That was the day before Rohith and Diwakar were shot dead by Jyoti.
Let me tell you a first person account of what transpired in front of my eyes.
I was reading the newspaper that evening in front of my house like I always do.
Jyoti's daughter was playing there, riding her bicycle.
At that time, I saw a yellow car cross my house.
I continued reading, wondering about the new car that whizzed past my house.
I heard a child screaming out of the blue.
Flustered, I got up to check.
I saw that Jyoti was running behind that yellow car.
Two youngsters in the car dragged that child forcibly into it.
The car gathered speed.
We were both running... -Stop it!
You spun a good yarn, Peddi Raju.
Jyoti's kid was playing outside it seems. A yellow car sped past at that time.
On top of all this, it was Rohith's car and the child was kidnapped in it.
They chased that car it seems but it gathered speed and vanished.
No use spinning unbelievable tales to create sympathy.
Court needs evidence.
Proper evidence!
We are not stating anything without proper evidence, Your Honor.
I have the required proof.
I request you to grant permission to play the second video linked with Jyoti's case.
Stop!
Notice this point, Your Honor.
There's a difference between kidnapping and saving a child being kidnapped.
Jyoti did not kidnap that child.
She was saving the kid.
Utterly kiddish!
If you remove your school uniform and wear a lawyer's coat, this will be the outcome.
You yell out 'Stop it' when the face is so blurred in that video.
And you blabber like an idiot she was saving instead of kidnapping!
You accused Jyoti of being the criminal with this video with the same blurred face!
Your Honor...
Jyoti didn't express the fury of a kidnapper or killer...
but a mother's unconditional love.
The child Jyoti allegedly kidnapped with this video as important evidence is...
Jyoti's own child.
A mother was trying to save her own blood.
How can she be accused of cold blooded abduction?
Will you please stop it?
You are preaching as if you were an eye witness at the crime spot?
Oh! Maybe you are confident a dead child can't rise from the grave to contradict!
Who said that child is dead?
She is very much alive.
Yes sir, I was an eye witness at the crime scene.
I am the only person who witnessed the entire traumatic event.
Because you see...
I am that kidnapped child.
The woman you branded as a psycho killer...
I'm Sakthi Jyoti's daughter.
Jyoti...
is my mother!
When people assumed Vennela was Peddi Raju's daughter...
This is trending everywhere.
Be quiet bro.'
Renowned advocate Raja Ratnam taking up this case without knowing the facts...
...is considered a huge error according to senior advocates.'
Good morning, sir.
Okay. Take care. Bye.
Sir, Varadaraju sir is calling you, sir.
Let him call sir.
Why are you getting flustered, sir?
Am I not the one paying you, sir?
Reserve your 'sir' only for me and press the silent mode on my phone.
-Now come and serve. -Okay sir.
What is the update?
I checked Vennela's proof and documents of her last hearing thoroughly sir.
From Vennela's school admission certificate to her mother Jyoti's signature...
everything is in order, sir.
Vennela is really Jyoti's daughter.
After Jyoti's demise, Peddi Raju raised Vennela.
He isn't her biological father.
Sir, they recovered a child's body from an old building in 2004, right?
That girl child is Angel.
She was from an orphanage and during an excursion to Ooty, she went missing.
The Father in charge of the orphanage filed a complaint on the very same day.
But the police lost that FIR complaint, sir.
Sir if you don't get me wrong...
So what if I do?
Rohith and his friend Diwakar are frauds.
Varadaraju hid many facts from me, is it? -Yes, sir.
Get back to serving me.
Vennela, are you ready?
Ready, start.
-Does it hurt? -Yes, dad.
You should be careful while playing.
Sir, Mr. Raja Ratnam is here.
Hello, Raja Ratnam.
Why are you looking at the ground?
Huh!
You think your deeds deserve a direct look in your eyes?
I took up this case without any questions because I held you in high respect.
Why did you hide the facts from me, sir?
-Get us something to drink. -Okay, sir.
What fact did I hide?
She asked about the gun.
Didn't I tell you I am responsible for that gun right in the beginning?
Who the hell knew?
Out of the blue she will claim to be Jyoti's daughter?
If I had known, I would have told you everything the other day.
How can you be so flippant about what they did?
You said she shot your son when he tried to save the child.
But your son?
Go ahead man, complete your sentence.
You're unable to, right?
What to do?
He is my son after all.
That's probably why I am washing my hands for the sins of his past.
You know how our society has put me on a high pedestal.
I want to ensure my good reputation is not tarnished till my last breath.
I will safeguard that reputation.
Sir if you tell your doctor you have piles feeling ashamed to say you have AIDS,
...you will be treated accordingly.
You should have bared your soul when you asked me to take up this case.
Instead if you want me to get a martyr's award for your son and you!
How is it possible? -Ratnam!
I didn't dismiss the public prosecutor and have you assigned to question me.
Have you only defended Gandhi earlier, huh?
You defended criminals for most of your cases.
100% true sir!
But unlike you, those clients were completely honest with me, unlike you.
After claiming to be Jyoti's daughter,
it wouldn't have her long to pin the crime on those two guys.
Reason she was silent these 15 years...
was to speak when people were willing to lend an ear.
That petty lawyer Peddi Raju has drafted a neat screenplay for this case.
Ratnam, I was apprehensive you may reject this case if I was upfront with you.
So I didn't come clean.
All facts about this case will be at your doorstep tonight.
'Jyoti is my mother.'
'Ratnam, I need to talk to you in private.'
'That gun was mine.'
'Sir, Vennela has announced in court that she is Jyoti's daughter.'
'Looks like she will win this case.'
She has some ace up her sleeve as evidence, sir.
Hi, sir.
Take a seat. -Thank you.
-What would you like to have? -Nothing, I'm good.
Rewind. Tell me what happened.
Sir, based on Jyoti's information, we went with a dog squad to Lovedale.
When the bungalow was searched thoroughly...
we obtained the information that those lads frequent that place.
Dig here!
Sir, come over here!
When we dug in front of the bungalow...
...we found the body of a girl child who has been dead for many days.
Sir, please hurry up.
When we searched the backyard...
we found the bodies of 4 girls in a decomposed state.
It was a cruel sight indeed.
Only then I realized those boys were so inhuman as to not even spare a dog.
Not knowing what to do, I narrated whatever they did to Varadaraju sir.
He sent a doctor over to camouflage the actual facts.
That doctor erased all the evidences of the lads raping those children.
He wiped their slate clean.
We made everyone believe Jyoti had buried that child we unearthed.
The bodies of the 4 girls we dug out in that bungalow's backyard...
we reburied them in Jyoti's backyard.
We fabricated that Jyoti was the kidnapper and killer.
Where is the doctor now?
The doctor has passed away.
What about the other two?
They were transferred to a different city immediately.
Only the three of us know the whole truth.
[automated message]
Damn it!
Raja Ratnam sir...
The documents submitted by Vennela are in order.
Do you have any objections?
No, sir.
Your Honor, what I've been trying to prove from the commencement of this case...
...is that Alex sir and team did not go to Tiruppur to arrest Jyoti.
I could not proceed with my argument because of insufficient evidence.
Now adequate evidence has been submitted about Jyoti's nativity.
So with your permission, may I proceed with Alexander sir?
Your Honor, police reports are the backbone of any case.
Police department has to go through many formalities to prepare them.
Eyewitnesses need to be interrogated and all evidences have to be filed properly.
But in this case alone, everything has been created.
Do you remember this photo?
Clicked in 2004 when people protested insisting on Jyoti being arrested.
Okay.
Your Honor, if you scrutinize this photo...
...the hands of the clock tower behind them point at 6:25.
Alex sir was also there till that specified time.
It takes 3 hours 30 minutes to travel from Ooty to Tiruppur.
He was the one who told us in the last hearing.
But according to police records...
I mean, as per your records...
...you arrested Jyoti at 8:00 p.m.
How could you have reached Tiruppur in 90 minutes, sir?
Timely point!
Please sit down sir.
I know what you intend saying.
Time might have stopped on that clock tower?
It is the same time on the wrist of the reporter who interviewed the official.
Even if he had flown...
...no way he could have reached Tiruppur by 8:00 p.m.
So, the fact that you arrested Jyoti in Tiruppur turns out to be a lie.
To save a child whose life was in danger...
how could you have gone to that old bungalow Jyoti was in?
Jyoti tried to escape from there.
How could you have shot her dead?
Your Honor, right from the arrest, including the police encounter is a lie.
Complete fabrication.
A local by birth has been branded a North Indian.
She has been victimized as having kidnapped her own child.
Why couldn't those two youngsters be the actual culprits?
Maybe the police official framed the innocent Jyoti to aid Varadaraju?
Bravo!
All along I thought this case was about Jyoti.
Only now I realize ma'am is trying to turn the tables on Mr. Varadaraju.
'Sit down.'
Didn't you say that to me?
Before saying that, I stood up to tell you this.
Now do you understand?
Jyoti was arrested only in Tiruppur.
But Alexander didn't arrest her.
The local police in Tiruppur did.
Alexander hasn't mentioned it anywhere in this charge sheet.
This is the report stating Jyoti was shifted to the custody of the Ooty police.
His biggest mistake was losing the FIR filed on the missing children.
No wonder all this confusion.
In such a sensitive case, thanks to a mistake like this by a police officer,
half baked lawyers like Vennela attend court...
and support murderers like Jyoti.
That's exactly why this court does not depend only on one department.
Post mortem, forensic and other reports maintained by the police are all true.
There's nothing to change or contradict in this, Your Honor.
Yes, Your Honor!
Nothing more to 'change' in these records.
Everything has already been tampered with.
But there is one contradiction.
Actually as shown in the police records, Mr. Alexander did not arrest Jyoti.
Tiruppur police didn't arrest her either as stated by Mr. Raja Ratnam.
Truth be told, no one arrested Jyoti.
Jyoti surrendered of her own volition...
to Sub Inspector Suresh Pandian who was on duty that day.
After that, he was made invisible in this case.
No! Your Honor. Ma'am is wrong about this alleged vanishing act.
He had applied for a transfer two months before he handled this case.
It was sanctioned and he was transferred and only one week later...
He didn't ask for a transfer, Your Honor!
Suresh Pandian is the only police officer who knows the truth behind this case.
In order to prevent Suresh from being called upon as a witness,
as if he had nothing to do with this case...
the transfer was a move well planned by Alexander.
Now, Suresh Pandian is an important witness in this case.
You should permit him to be summoned for the next argument, Your Honor.
Your Honor, I am wondering if our lawyer passed out of Law college or a crematorium!
She keeps summoning witnesses from their graves.
First, it was Jyoti.
Then those two guys. Finally, Suresh Pandian.
He committed suicide last night due to excess work pressure.
Everybody in this department is aware of this tragedy.
Even now if you notice, as if unaware of his demise...
her expression will be one of utter surprise and absolute innocence.
Jyoti can't become a saint because you are her daughter.
It is true Jyoti killed innocent children brutally.
True that police unearthed the bodies of the deceased in your backyard.
And it is true the two youngsters who intervened were killed.
In fact, I have to list out all these facts as truth to convert your lies into truth.
What's up, Vanilla!
Sorry. Vennela!
Vennela Peddi Raju.
Vennela Sakthi Jyoti!
How do I address you?
Do you know whom you are pitting your wits against?
Raja Ratnam!
You may have studied law just to defend this case.
But when laws were drafted for our nation...
...my family held these law books in their hands with experience.
I have seen many cases like this to reach this rung in my ladder of success!
I had a niggling doubt that something was fishy in this case.
Every case has a weak point.
That has made you and me reach our present standpoint.
Reaching is not important. But the research and final result are.
You have lied through your teeth.
Now do you know why Varadaraju has brought me into this case?
Because I am the best!
But there is a beast in me too.
To pep up the case and make it more interesting...
I give the defense attorney precious points on a golden platter.
When I asked you about Raman over the phone...
you said you created the character to strengthen your case.
I believed you for Varadaraju's sake.
But you still have some facts you have forsaken.
You might as well tell me before Vennela spills the beans in court tomorrow!
Will you confess now?
Or go to prison?
Sir...
I didn't arrest Jyoti!
She surrendered.
I chose to do this with a greed for promotion.
Jyoti surrendered to Suresh.
I got the truth out and told Varadaraju!
I suggest you discard your coat and look for some other job.
If you don't get any job join as my junior.
At least you'll get a salary every month.
Enough, my dear!
I can't bear to see you like this.
Let's give up.
We have nothing left to fight for.
We have lost, dear.
I am so scared I might lose you too.
You should not be scared of anything other than truth.
We will be harassed even more.
You taught me not to take two steps back when they hassle or humiliate you.
Am I hearing this from you?
Laws and court are designed to suit the needs of those with money and might.
Not for us common people!
No, dad.
I have faith in our system.
If only liars prosper...
If only bad people can win, this world would've been destroyed long ago.
Just because of this hardship...
how can I let go of this case half way through?
Truth should triumph, dad.
I don't agree with you.
Whatever you may say, my mind can't be consoled.
Listen to your father. Best solution is to let go!
"Has your dream been shattered? Are you left in tears"
"In this fight for me"
Vennela, don't be worried,okay?
Go, sleep.
Hold on.
"Will you make it to the shore amidst the storm?"
"Are my hopes ever going to come true?"
"Is my heart going to wither away from the loneliness?"
"Will I ever get justice?"
Come on! We haven't lost the case yet?
If SI Suresh Pandian is not alive, this case is as good as buried.
It's all over!
Don't say it like a broken record.
There must be a way. I have full faith.
I am telling you, we have lost!
Please understand. Without him, we have nothing to go by!
What really happened to Jyoti?
Why was she arrested and killed in a police encounter?
Our quest for 15 years to find the only man who knew the truth.
Our first and final witness was sub inspector Suresh Pandian!
Jyoti surrendered to me first, sir.
The fact I arrested her or the police encounter...
It's all a lie.
To prevent her from exposing the truth to the world...
...she was murdered.
Sir at least after all these years...
...the world should know Jyoti was innocent and a victim.
Please come and narrate this verbatim in court, sir.
Definitely!
I am most willing to tell the whole truth in court, sir.
No one can file a case against a big shot like Varadaraju.
I made people believe I was filing a case for mere publicity.
Through Suresh Pandian, we thought we can reveal the truth to the whole world.
Varadaraju was cunning enough to replace the public prosecutor with Raja Ratnam.
We were convinced we can bring justice to Jyoti's demise and clear her image.
That's why we bore the brunt of all the hassles and humiliation silently.
But what is the use?
Suresh was the pulse for this case.
His pulse is ruptured now.
"Only one door has been closed There are plenty other doors"
"Keep your patience fueled"
"Wear your trust along the paths you walk"
"Victory will be on your side"
"Fight time and your enemies Don't be disappointed"
"Sky is your limit Victory is your right"
"Rise high like a tide"
"Fight time and your enemies Don't be disappointed"
"Sky is your limit Victory is your right"
"Rise high like a tide"
You should never be scared of anyone or anything in life.
Stand bold brave and tall.
Fight with full faith in yourself.
Mom will always be with you.
No daughter will call a kidnapper as her mother with this much conviction.
That is proof enough.
Some kind of strange truth lies behind every word you utter.
If it is true that you are fighting for truth...
God and all those mothers who lost their children like me...
...will support you in solidarity.
Fight till the very end till everyone is aware of the real truth.
Give me the phone. -I won't! Get lost!'
-Welcome. -Hello, ma'am.
Please sit down.
May I know who you are?
Please sit. -She is Vennela.
Mr Peddi Raju's daughter.
He used to keep talking about you.
Hi. -Hi!
Fine, don't give. I'll take dad's phone.
Hello, dear.
I am Varadaraju.
Namaste.
I have heard about you, sir.
She is Vennela. Known to my husband.
She has come from Ooty.
I'll get coffee for you, sir.
Vennela...
I am quite surprised to see you here.
Did you send off Suresh to rest in peace?
I don't know how many will follow suit before this case is wrapped up.
Sir, don't let your tongue run!
Hey! Don't interrupt me when I'm talking.
Just shut up.
What will you achieve by reopening this case?
Just let go of everything.
You can't resolve anything.
That's how it will seem now.
We can tackle it. You can leave.
Didn't I tell you to shut up?
How dare you threaten us! What atrocities you...
Damn you!
Respect!
When I talk, only my voice should be heard.
There are hordes of people waiting to fall at my feet if I step out of this house.
I need to be respected until my dying day!
I will caution you only once patiently.
Not every single time.
Abandon everything and go. Do you get what I said?
It's nothing.
It was an accident The glass broke when I got up.
I have work to attend to. I'll take leave now.
I wanted to inform you I would like to take care of your children's education.
Please don't hesitate to ask me if you need help of any sort.
I don't want to trouble you, sir.
I'm so glad you found time to come all the way to visit me.
Vennela, I'm leaving!
You be careful!
We'll also take leave, madam.
Call us if you need any help. -Okay.
We are there for you.
I'm really sorry for your loss.
Vennela, are you producing any evidence?
Listen, I'm asking you.
Your Honor, not the usual grace time.
Even if you give two years, this case won't have evidence.
She won't even have 'Evi' in evidence let alone the full eight letter word!
For the simple reason that such an evidence doesn't exist.
This may be her only case.
I have a huge backlog of pending cases to attend to.
No daughter can bear to have even a villainous mother vilified.
She will fly into a rage for sure.
She isn't in a mental state to understand Jyoti's crime.
I ask this court in all humility to arrange a professional psychiatrist to treat her...
Why beat around the bush?
Be direct!
Call me a lunatic.
For 15 long years,
...convinced I could bring to light the facts concealed in this case,
...I put up with all the humiliation.
I must be mad.
Justice will triumph!
This court always strives to be impartial in its verdict to people.
I believe that even now in utter foolishness.
You bet I am mad.
Despite knowing that the voices of victims are silenced...
I am standing before you, my hands tied alone and helpless.
I am definitely a lunatic.
How is it, sir?
If girls fight for justice with courage and conviction, you label it as madness?
If we elaborate our problems aloud to society it is termed 'drama'!
If we share our tears, we are drama queens!
Why is the pain behind our truths always fake and false to you, sir?
Raja Ratnam sir!
Have you ever got up from a nightmare where a 100 people are strangling you?
What?
Never, I'm sure!
Renowned advocate family right?
What is pain?
For that matter what is loss or scars?
You must be absolutely clueless!
But I wasn't that lucky.
It has been years since I slept peacefully for a whole night.
Behind the flash of my smile are concealed tears.
Unleashed rage within me, I'm unable to put my past behind me.
Every single night...
I die from being hounded by hands belonging to unknown faces chasing me.
Pain!
Loss!
Bruises!
They are indelible scars all over my body!
Your Honor, do you remember Aasifa?
I am sure you do.
Because, there's a child in your house and mine...
who has grown up crossing Aasifa's age.
Aasifa!
Hasini!
Nandini!
Names we come across daily.
It's just news to us.
Have you ever thought of your child in those children's shoes even once?
Only then you will know the raw pain of what was just news to you.
As far as we are concerned...
...we assume our children are growing up in a protected environment.
But that isn't true.
In one of those affectionate moments spent with your children, ask them with concern.
Someone you know at some point in time would have sexually abused that child.
In all the streets in our country...
...there are many Aasifas, Hasinis and Nandinis.
But they lack the guts to express the atrocities forced on them.
Some don't even know how to disclose the abuse they are suffering under duress.
Before knowing the joys and sorrows life metes out...
Disregarding the fact she is a child...
to take advantage of her body is the most barbaric violence.
If every sexually abused child starts talking point-blank and publicly...
...the pristine images of so many so called noble souls...
...will splinter into a million shards!
What the hell are you saying, ma'am?
Speak up like a lawyer!
Is there any connection between your sermon and this case?
Of course, Mr. Raja Ratnam!
That is the reason I took up this case after all these years.
The same reason my mother shot dead those two youngsters.
You keep branding all this as innocent, right?
Atrocities of those two youngsters activated this torturous trauma.
You keep saying Jyoti shot those innocent lads.
Why did she shoot them?
Tell me if even a single person here knows the reason behind that pain.
I know, Your Honor!
Vennela!
Don't, my dear.
Sorry, dad.
Some truths need to be exposed.
Even due to the smallest grain of truth we conceal under the guise of disgrace,
...so many monstrous villains become glorified heroes!
My mother hated seeing me shed tears even if dust fell into my eyes.
But they kidnapped me in front of her protective eyes.
Those two youngsters raped many girl children.
I am also one of them.
Whenever I am alone...
replaying the mental image of their hands abusing my body...
I have screamed in terror so many days and nights.
That surge of panic!
Alarm!
Pain!
I am fighting for a few tears of compassion.
I am fighting for some sort of justice...
for all those wide-eyed innocent children who got raped just like me.
Bodies of the four children unearthed in my backyard...
...were raped and killed by those two vile youngsters.
The police fabricated all this and filed their First Information Report!
Doctors who conducted the post mortem and the cops who handled this case...
...are partners in this crime.
All this was Varadaraju's conspiracy to save those two guys.
To show the miscreants in good light...
they blackened my innocent mother as a psycho killer!
Sub inspector Suresh had a change of heart and was willing to confess everything.
Getting wind of his intentions, they threatened him.
They forced him to commit suicide.
Blamed it on pressure of work.
She is rambling unnecessarily and misleading this case.
Sir, sit down. Allow her to talk.
To prove any of that...
I have nothing to submit as evidence except truth and tears, Your Honor.
To claim I struggled and lost...
...this isn't a game.
Justice!
I'm not standing here as an advocate today...
...but a girl victimized.
I am speaking with the firm faith only truth will triumph.
Because throughout this world...
...many who have been traumatized through physical abuse and violence
...won't have any other evidence other than truth, Your Honor.
Listen Vennela, my solace is ever present for those who were affected by this trauma.
But for a judge,
...evidence presented in front of his eyes...
...will determine the nature of his verdict.'
The statement that your mother Jyoti killed those four children...
...is confirmed by the post mortem and forensic reports.
There is no evidence in any report to aid your theory those children were raped.
When no blame can be pinned on those two youngsters...
...how can you accuse Varadaraju of being a criminal?
Judgment is tomorrow. Court is adjourned!
How many more women? How many more children?
How long will this continue to each and every one of us too?
How can evidence be provided for such cases, sir?
I consider myself as that girl's father.
She is striving so hard for justice!
But what is the use? Our law leans towards the rich not poor.
Sir, court needs evidence! Tears won't win cases.
Child rape is the worst crime!'
If this happened to my child I swear I won't spare them.
What to do? Our laws are flawed!
This is our Law!
According to our Court of Law, when a girl files a case of rape...
...court doesn't require the truth. Verdict hinges on evidence only!
Where is your advocate?
No, sir. Due to personal reasons, she was unable to attend court today.
I've lost, mom.
I've lost.
Everything has slipped out of our hands.
Forgive me, mom.
Forgive me.
I have failed you, mom.
I lost.
I lost, mom!
Vennela!
Vennela...
Vennela, you haven't lost!
The case hasn't slipped out of your hands.
In this case, I had specified judgment will be passed today.
But regarding this case,
...scrutinizing the case history more than just once is needed.
I think Varadaraju should be interrogated.
Your Honor, I think this is an unasked confusion.
It is crystal clear Mr. Varadaraju is in no way connected to this case.
Why drag him into this sir?
Raja Ratnam sir, in some twisted logic his name has been pulled into this case.
What is your problem in Varadaraju being summoned?
We can close this case and all of us can move on right?
That is exactly my thought too. Close the case and move on.
There's no reason in changing your mind after intending to pronounce judgment!
Why this unnecessary tension?
This court's main purpose is to sift and sieve the truth.
How can I pass judgment before exploring all avenues?
Your Honor, this is unfair.
I somehow feel you are showing favoritism.
Raja Ratnam sir, mind your words.
No I won't allow him to be summoned here for sure!
Stop it!
Varadaraju has to be here for the next hearing.
I will close this case only after he is interrogated!
This case can't be wrapped up according to your whims and fancies.
The next hearing is day after tomorrow!
The court is adjourned!
Vennela you haven't lost, my dear.
Hello? -Member of Parliament Anand Kumar here.
I heard you have summoned Mr. Varadaraju to court.
Are you in your right senses?'
As if I will decide off the cuff, sir?
I know Mr. Varadaraju inside out.
But ever since that girl posted the case in High court for retrial,
...she has mentioned his name quite often.
So what man?
Tomorrow I should not be blamed for inadequate interrogation.
Just as a formality, ask him to attend the proceedings, sir.
I can wrap up the case.
Is that so?
[media clamor]
Sir, I don't want you... -To be worried, Ratnam?
15 years ago I took all efforts to diligently close this case.
What is it she can ask me?
Is Jyoti's case Mr. Varadaraju here?
Yes, sir.
Mr. Varadaraju.
Sir...
Vennela, you can proceed!
Your name?
Varadaraju!
Tell me about yourself.
I'm an ordinary man.
Through Rohith Trust and companies,
...I give financial aid to about 20,000 poor families in our State.
...and educational expenses of their children.
I do what I can to help the people below poverty line.
A company you own in Tiruppur,
...it has been indicted for encroachment on agricultural lands!
Not just an accusation, my dear.
A case was filed.
Court felt those cases were mere publicity stunts and dismissed them.
20 years ago...
...your garment business incurred losses.
In order to claim insurance money, you cleared the entire stock...
and set the factory on fire deliberately...
Objection, Your Honor!
Raja Ratnam sir.
It's true my factory was burnt down.
Insurance company enquired about the accident thoroughly.
Only then handed over the claim amount to me.
So many such similar complaints are piled against you.
But none of them get filed as cases.
How is that, sir?
If cases are filed based on rumors...
...1000 cases or more will have to be filed against every individual, dear.
There won't be enough courts in our country to handle them.
If you want to know about a person, you must enquire with the people properly.
No point in just browsing through Google to interrogate me.
Vennela, ask questions pertaining to this case alone.
Sir, why are you so silent?
Wait and watch.
I have a bomb to drop for the climax.
That's your trademark!
2004!
Near Peelamedu signal under the pretext of running a public welfare scheme...
...you assembled a huge crowd.
It created a gridlock for two hours.
A patient in an ambulance got stuck in that traffic and even died.
In fact, people say you had deliberately planned the traffic jam to kill him!
Do you accept it?
Given a chance will you blame me for every single crime in the city, dear?
Even to swat a mosquito which sits on me to bite me...
...I think twice before doing so, Amma.
Mr. Varadaraju I am an advocate.
Don't address me with all these endearing terms.
Do you understand?
I don't think I said anything demeaning.
Isn't it our custom to add 'Amma' treat women with respect?
It is customary to add a suffix 'ra' to men to denote disrespect too!
Shall I do so?
Hey! How dare you! You won't step out alive!
Silence!
Do you think this is court or a fish market?
I came to this court only because I respect our judiciary system.
She doesn't know the meaning of the word 'respect'!
Hope you are aware.
I shall take leave.
Respect!
'Damn you!'
I need to be respected until my dying day.'
Varadaraju.
Did I ask you to leave?
Mr. Varadaraju...
Till she completes her interrogation...
...kindly cooperate.
How do I come across to you?
If I come for a hearing will you treat me with total lack of respect like this, huh?
Standing here in the witness box,
...to a criminal even an interrogation will seem like humiliation, Varadaraju!
Just answer my questions.
Aren't you one among the few using licensed pistols in Coimbatore?
Yes!
So what now?
Has your son used your pistol?
He was very young.
He had no idea where my pistol was.
Please come.
Varadaraju.
Look at me!
When your son died... -No...!
My son didn't die of natural causes.
He was murdered!
Okay, fine!
Few days after his death,
...did you visit Ooty?
Yes!
At that time, do you remember visiting any other place in Ooty?
No!
I didn't visit any other place. -So you claim.
But I have a witness here who contradicts you.
Do you recognize him?
He is the only witness who saw Alexander handing over Jyoti to you.
He opened the gates of your tea factory for you on that day!
Why are you sweating sir even in this cold Ooty weather?
Is it out of fear?
Fear?
There is no need for me to be afraid of anyone or anything.
Then tell the truth 'ra'!
How dare you address me with disrespect 'ra'?
Yes 'ra'!
Anyhow, even if you don't blurt out the truth he will do the needful.
Who the hell is he to tell?
I will tell you myself.
Yes!
I went there.
This court or law can't hurt or harm me.
Varadaraju, do you realize what you are saying or where you are standing?
Why did you go there? Answer her question!
How can he answer that, Your Honor?
I will tell you...
...what might have transpired.
This kind of pain a parent of a girl child should never experience.'
In front of her parents if a girl child is kidnapped...'
When my mother was right there...
...because of those boys...
...I was traumatized!
More than the pain when those boys kidnapped me,'
...it was my mother's anguished scream.
My baby!
It echoed in my ears!
What happened?
My baby!
Hey!
Mom!
Someone... help!
Save my daughter!
Hey...!
My baby! -Mom...
My baby...!
Where are you, my dear?
I didn't know where I was...
...not knowing what he was doing to me.
I couldn't fight them.
I was shattered.
The pain that seared through me can't be described.
My baby...!
"If you get upset with me"
"I'll happily make it up to you"
Wake up, dear!
"I'll see the same dream as you"
Don't you always say you don't like your mom crying?
"I'll get mischievous"
I am crying now, right?
Till the very end!
Your mom is crying. Open your eyes.
"No matter what happens"
"Don't let your heart get defeated"
"I spend every second reliving this agony"
How can this happen to you?'
"You are my bundle of joy"
What have you done, God?!
"Come home with me"
"Now you're all by yourself in this crooked world"
Get up, my baby...!
Won't someone in this world take me away from all this?
Praying desperately!
That was when I heard my mother sob with such anguish.
Mom is here.
I won't die, mom.
I felt like telling her I won't leave you so soon.
You will be fine my dear.
There was just like me, equally devastated...
...another girl.
Angel.
When I told my mother...
she ran to save her panic stricken and agitated.
Poor girl was already dead.
How much pain she must have endured.
Hey, stop! Catch her!
Don't...
Don't touch her!
Get her!
Come and help me.
Let go...!
Get hold of her.
To make the criminal an innocent victim...
Dude...
...my mother shot them with a pistol the police claimed.
What happened, dude?
That gun...
...was in the possession of Varadaraju's son.'
Hey! Don't.
Hey, don't! Listen to me.
Hand over the gun.
Don't shoot.
Don't come close. I'll shoot.
Give it.
No! Don't shoot!
Run, dude!
Come on!
Dude?
Wake up, man. Don't... don't shoot!
Jyoti, I was looking for you all over the place.
What happened to her?
Let me hold her.
Oh God!
What is this blood stain?
Oh God! What is this?
She is also bleeding.
What happened dear?
Jo... Jyoti...!
Jyoti!
Philomina...?
Oh God!
A new twist in the case of children missing for the past few weeks.
...police suspect the psycho killer seen in the video...
...may be responsible for the series of child-kidnappings in Ooty.'
Mom!
Dear, don't worry. I'm right next to you.
Police inspector Alexander's team in Ooty...
...has been hunting high and low for the psycho killer.'
In addition, shoot at sight orders have been issued.'
Jyoti...?
-Where is Jyoti? -She is inside.
-Why are you so flustered? -I'll tell you!
Jyoti!
Jyoti, the police have found out our house is in this area.
They might be here any minute.
Escape with the child through the back door!
Sir the police will find me anyway.
You have helped me so much.
My child... please!
Take her somewhere safe.
What are you saying?
How can we leave you like this and go?
Your life will be wasted.
We can all leave together.
I'll get you both to a safe place...
This child's life is more important!
Listen to her please.
Let us take the child away before the police find us.
In life you should never be scared of anyone or anything in life.
Stand bold, brave and tall!
Fight with full faith in yourself.
Mom will always be with you.
Right here!
You are my lioness, right?
Mom will be with us soon.
My mother surrendered voluntarily to the police just to save me.
She surrendered to sub inspector Suresh Pandian.
When he took my mother to present her in court...
...half way through he was asked to bring my mother to Mr. Varadaraju.
Ordered by inspector Alexander!
Varadaraju was scared that my mom will reveal the truth.
Yes! I only shot her.
All these years...
...I have been fighting for only this one minute!
Shattering someone's identity...
...is the biggest violence!
The world should have revered Jyoti as a Goddess.
Instead she was defamed as a demon and you were made to believe so!
In this land where a hungry man was beaten to death for stealing a handful of rice...
...sex perverts who raped hundreds of women and recorded it...
...are roaming the roads Scot-free!
Even if a person is beaten to death...
...he will breathe his last in one day.
But rape!
That pain!
Suffering!
That too at such a tender age.
No one should go through it, Your Honor.
Girls who have been victimized like me...
...I am not sure how many more Vennelas will come out in the open and speak up!
But speak hereafter with courage without any inhibitions.
People should believe criminals cannot bribe and buy justice, Your Honor!
Because to say we women have lost...
...this is not a game Your Honor.
Justice!
Raja Ratnam sir, do you have any questions?
I have nothing to ask.
But I have only one statement to make.
Vennela...
...is not Jyoti's daughter at all.
You are not her daughter.
I meant you are Jyoti's angel!
When we dug in front of the bungalow...'
...we found the body of a girl child.'
Equally devastated. Another girl'
That girl child is Angel sir!'
In this case of shooting Jyoti...'
...covering up his son's crimes...'
...all charges against Varadaraju have clearly been proved to be true!'
Not only that...'
...Inspector Alexander who was an accomplice and his team...'
...have been aiding and abetting Varadaraju in many instances.'
Accused number one, Varadaraju, will serve a double life sentence!'
His abettors, Alexander and his team,'
...will serve 10 years in prison according to the verdict of this court.'
You are not Jyoti's daughter, Vennela.
You are her angel!
Others may not be aware...
...but I am unable to fathom this.
What a daughter may not do for her own mother,
...you have accomplished for Jyoti.
Without any blood ties that bind,
...for a random stranger,
...why did you go this far?
Is this love...?
Or debt of gratitude?
Pain sir!
To feel someone's pain...
...we don't need to be blood related sir.
True, I am not Vennela.
I am Angel...!
When I was fervently hoping someone will come to save me...
Jyoti answered my prayers.
instead of leaving after seeing her Vennela lying lifeless...
I was struggling to breathe and she saved me.
My baby...
Don't you always say you don't like your mom crying?
Open your eyes. Tell me not to cry!
Get up, my baby!
Get up my princess.'
My baby... please get up and look at me.
Only because I understood her pain and sacrifice...
...I am now living as Jyoti's Vennela.
I request this to all of you.
How a girl child should behave...
Places she can go...
Her dress code...
Parents who teach her whom to talk to or befriend...
...should also teach the boys living under the same roof...
...how to regard respect and relate to girls and women.'
India ranks 7th in child sexual abuse.
And Tamil Nadu occupies the third place...
...according to National Crime Records of 2018.
Under the Child Sexual Abuse Protection Act,
...there are more than 1,66000 cases pending in India.
In 94% of these cases,
...perpetrators are mostly close or known to the victim.
These inhuman criminals should be punished at the earliest.
That should be a lesson to others.
Isn't justice delayed injustice?