The Thrissur SC and ST Court on Thursday, December 12 directed the Crime Branch to add abetment sections against the police officers accused in Dalit youth Vinayakan’s 2017 suicide in Thrissur’s Engandiyoor. The court ordered this while considering Vinayakan’s father’s petition.
In 2017, 19-year-old Vinayakan died by suicide after he was arrested by the police on charges of theft. Later, an investigation by the Crime Branch revealed custodial torture by two Civil Police Officers – Sajan and Sreejith – from the Pavaratty police station.
The officers were earlier charged with assault, intimidation, unlawful detention, and violations under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act. Now, the chargesheet will be updated and charges of abetment added.
Vinayakan was arrested for allegedly stealing a gold chain, but was later released. He died by suicide after returning home. His post-mortem report confirmed that he was subjected to severe torture by police officers while in custody. There were several scars on his forehead, right nipple, and lower abdomen, all pointing towards torture. The family also claimed that the police asked him to cut his hair.
The police officers were suspended but reinstated after a period of six months.
If you are aware of anyone facing mental health issues or feeling suicidal, please provide help. Here are some helpline numbers of suicide-prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.
Tamil Nadu
State health department's suicide helpline: 104
Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050 (listed as the sole suicide prevention helpline in Tamil Nadu)
Andhra Pradesh
Life Suicide Prevention: 78930 78930
Roshni: 9166202000, 9127848584
Karnataka
Sahai (24-hour): 080 65000111, 080 65000222
Kerala
Maithri: 0484 2540530
Chaithram: 0484 2361161
Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.
Telangana
State government's suicide prevention (tollfree): 104
Roshni: 040 66202000, 6620200
SEVA: 09441778290, 040 27504682 (between 9 am and 7 pm
Aasara offers support to individuals and families during an emotional crisis, for those dealing with mental health issues and suicidal ideation, and to those undergoing trauma after the suicide of a loved one.
24x7 Helpline: 9820466726
Click here for working helplines across India.