Sumanta Bansi’s parents ended their tough day in court with a visit to the Butterfly Rock in Hoorn. The monument in memory of victims of violence. 37 butterflies in total, including their daughter. “I think it’s very beautiful, she will never be forgotten.”
Sharmila Nanda and her ex-husband Marlon Bansi have come over from Suriname to attend the appeal against Manodj B.. But it also offers them the chance to visit the Butterfly Rock. It’s been hanging there recently also a butterfly for sumanta.
And despite the tough day in the Amsterdam court, they want to bring flowers. They are impressed by the monument. “I’m happy that Sumanta has had a spot there,” said Sharmila.
Penalty too low
They find the sentence of 15 years in prison that the Public Prosecution Service demanded against B. far too low. “We are convinced that he did it on purpose, it’s just murder. It’s all lies upon lies that he tells. Everything has been snatched by this killer.”
The family is still struggling with the loss of Sumanta. Sharmila has health problems and takes medication, which prevents her from working. Marlon has had therapy sessions. “Our family has been destroyed,” he says.
Sharmila adds. “I can’t give it a place. As a mother I can’t close it. I’ll take it to my grave.”
Appeal: deliberate act or self-defense?
Manodj B. was sentenced to 15 years in prison last year, but appealed. According to him, he was attacked by Sumanta with a knife. A struggle ensued and he stabbed her several times, after which she died. A statement that the Public Prosecution Service does not believe and therefore demanded another 15 years in prison.
Read more here about the lawsuit filed today.