A group of 20 people, including women and children, were allegedly attacked by the Kerala police near Pathanamthitta private bus stand in the late hours of Tuesday, February 4. Pathanamthitta Sub Inspector of Police S Jinu has reportedly been transferred.
The group of people, all of whom hail from Kottayam, were returning after a wedding reception in Adoor. They were taking a rest near the KSRTC stand and parked their traveller vehicle nearby. The incident occurred around 11 in the night. Those injured were immediately transferred to Pathanamthitta General Hospital.
Based on a complaint from Sithara Mol CT, who also sustained injuries, the police registered a First Information Report. The complaint said that Sithara, her husband Sreejith, and another person Shijin were assaulted by a police personnel with a lathi. A case has been registered under 15(2),118(1),118(2),3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).
“The police vehicle suddenly arrived and began beating us. We didn’t even get the time to ask what the issue was. My husband and I fell to the ground when they hit us. Even though they continued to assault,” Sithara told the media, adding that the action was unprovoked.
Pathanamthitta MP Anto Antony described the incident as “absolute mayhem unleashed by the police”, adding that this was just one of many recent cases of police misconduct.
"I have spoken to the Superintendent of Police and demanded strict action against the erring officers, who have been acting lawlessly," Antony stated.
Raju Abraham, a five-time former CPI(M) legislator, and the current CPI(M) district secretary, expressed serious concern over the alleged brutality.
"This incident, which took place around 11 pm, is extremely disturbing. Innocent people, including women, were assaulted. This kind of behaviour tarnishes the reputation of Kerala Police, which is known for its discipline. We expect a thorough investigation and appropriate action," he said.
The incident has triggered local protests, with Youth Congress workers announcing a demonstration in Pathanamthitta to demand justice for the victims.
According to the police, the incident occurred due to a mistaken identity as they were on the lookout for some miscreants who caused a ruckus at a bar near the bus stand.
(With inputs from IANS)