Dead inmate's mother appeals against dismissal of court bid

The mother of an inmate who died in Changi Prison launched an appeal on Wednesday in her fight for a coroner's inquiry into his death.

Madam Selvi Narayanasamy, 45, took action after the High Court dismissed her application for a judicial review into why the coroner decided not to proceed with an inquiry.

Dinesh Raman Chinnaiah, 21, died of breathing difficulties while in custody on Sept 27, 2010, after he was restrained following an unprovoked attack.

His mother has vigorously disputed the official account placed before the courts during the hearing of senior prison officer Lim Kwo Yin, 36, who pleaded guilty to causing death by negligence.

The Attorney-General's Chambers has said the state coroner exercised his discretion because the cause of and circumstances connected to Dinesh's death had already been heard in court.

Justice Tay Yong Kwang dismissed Madam Selvi's application on Oct 16.

Her lawyer M. Ravi said she is pushing ahead with the appeal after the $23,000 fees it involved were waived by the High Court.

Madam Selvi, a cleaner, earns $700 a month and supports her five-year-old daughter and ailing husband, who is bedridden.

Justice Tay will issue written grounds of decision to Madam Selvi and the Attorney-General, who will make representations to each other. Madam Selvi will then confirm her intention to appeal.

Mr Ravi said: "She is extremely happy that she now has the opportunity to vindicate her rights before the Court of Appeal in demanding justice for her son."

WALTER SIM

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