Keralam’s Muttil tree-felling cheating case: trial court postpones framing of charges to September 19

The Chottanikkara Judicial First Class Magistrate Court has postponed the framing of charges against the Augustine brothers in the Muttil tree-felling cheating case until September 19. The delay follows a request by the accused to wait for an upcoming Kerala High Court verdict regarding the ongoing legal proceedings.
Why it matters
This case highlights the complex legal battle surrounding the illegal felling and sale of protected timber in Kerala, involving significant allegations of fraud and environmental exploitation.
The Chottanikkara Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Ernakulam on Friday (September 11, 2026) further postponed the framing of charges against the Augustine brothers in the cheating case linked to the Muttil tree-felling scandal in Wayanad, Keralam, to September 19.
The adjournment followed a plea by the accused seeking suspension of proceedings until the Kerala High Court delivered its verdict. On Thursday (September 10, 2026), the High Court reserved its verdict and vacated the interim order on the proceedings, enabling the investigating officer to file the final report within 10 days.
The case is likely to be taken up by the High Court on September 18.
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