The Kerala police are facing criticism for delaying the arrest of four SFI leaders of Thiruvananthapuram University College, accused of assaulting a differently-abled student. Muhammed Anas, a 19-year-old second-year BA Islamic History student and a native of Konniyoor, was attacked on December 2 by Amal Chand, Midhun, Alan Jamal (philosophy students), and Vidhu Uday (a PG zoology student). All the accused hold leadership positions within the SFI.
The police registered cases under non-bailable sections against the four on December 3 but have yet to make any arrests, stating that the accused are absconding. This inaction has sparked outrage, leading the Kerala Students Union (KSU) to organize protest marches on December 6, demanding immediate action.
Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan accused the SFI of running a "torture chamber" within the college premises and called for the immediate arrest of those responsible for the brutal attack.
Anas, who has physical disability, in his complaint alleged that he was assaulted for not climbing a tree to erect party flags. He was reportedly body-shamed, dragged into the union room, and kicked in his disabled leg by the accused.
The State Human Rights Commission has taken cognizance of the incident and, on December 6, ordered a detailed investigation. Justice Alexander Thomas directed the city police commissioner and the director of collegiate education to submit a report within a month and ordered two senior officers to appear before the commission on January 14 when the case will be reconsidered.