1. This is an application to transfer a Sessions Case, popularly known as 'Karikkanvilla Murder Case', from the Additional Sessions Court, Mavelikkara to the Sessions Court, Alleppey. The case was committed to the Sessions Court, Alleppey but the same was made over to the Additional Sessions Judge, Mavelikkara by the Sessions Judge, Alleppey. The application has been made under S.407(1)(c) and 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure by the State represented by the Superintendent of Police, Alleppey. The stand taken in the application is that for the general convenience of the parties, witnesses and others who have to attend the trial the case should be transferred to the Sessions Court, Alleppey. One of the reasons alleged is that there is not enough accommodation facilities at Mavelikkara and this will result in great inconvenience especially to the witnesses from outside the State numbering 59.

2. Respondents 1, 3 and 4 have filed counter-affidavits. These accused have opposed the transfer on various grounds.

3. The learned Additional Advocate General appearing for the State contended that this Court can order a transfer of the case to the Sessions Court. Alleppey or to a