A selfie taken by a DYFI leader in Kottayam has turned into a major controversy for the district police. The selfie was taken by 23-year-old Midhun alias Ambily, DYFI Secretary in Kottayam, after he was arrested on Monday for allegedly attacking BJP workers in Kumarakom. Midhun was taken to the Kottayam East police station, and released on bail after a case was booked against him.
What has earned widespread censure is that Midhun is seen in the selfie wearing the police cap of a Sub-Inspector. Midhun had clicked a snap and sent it to his friends on WhatsApp minutes after he was brought to the police station.
The photo went viral on social media, after N Hari, BJP's Kottayam district President posted the photo on his Facebook page.
Sharing the photo on Tuesday morning, Hari wrote: "Police provide warm welcome to Ambiliy, who is a history sheeter and a CPI (M) goon from Kumarakom."
The police has since come under fire for laxity in dealing with an accused, and for their alleged nexus with members of Left parties. The Kottayam Commissioner has launched a probe into the incident, under the charge of the Kottayam DySP.
The DySP told TNM that a case has been registered against Midhun under Section 171 of IPC (wearing the garb or carrying a token used by public servant with fraudulent intent).
Asked whether the department will initiate action against the policemen on duty while the incident happened, the DySP said:
"I will be submitting a report to the Commissioner stating the negligence and laxity shown by the policemen. Further action will be taken based on the report."
The DYFI has reportedly suspended Midhun from the party.
On its official Twitter page, the BJP – which has already been accusing the state government of failing to maintain law and order – has claimed that this incident is indicative of the state of law and order in the state.
"This gives an idea of what's happening in law and order front in Kerala. DYFI leader caught for an assault case takes a selfie wearing SI's cap," read a tweet from the handle.
This gives an idea of what's happening in law & order front in Kerala.DYFI leader caught for an assault case takes a selfie wearing SI's cap pic.twitter.com/GBAHyqrshC
— BJP KERALAM (@BJP4Keralam) August 8, 2017