Assault on Youth Congress Workers During Nava Kerala Yatra
Five police officers were suspended following an investigation into their involvement in assaulting Youth Congress workers during Nava Kerala Yatra three years ago. The incident raised concerns about police behavior under Z category security protocols.
Highlights
- •Five police officers, including the gunman of Pinarayi Vijayan's security detail, were suspended
- •SIT findings revealed tampered case diaries and corroborating video evidence
- •Incident occurred during Nava Kerala Yatra in Alappuzha on December 15, 2023
- •Prolonged investigation exposed misuse of authority by law enforcement
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Five police officers, including the gunman of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's security detail, were suspended on Tuesday in connection with a brutal assault that took place during Nava Kerala Yatra three years ago. The officers at the crux of this controversy are Anil Kumar (the gunman), Sandeep, Vipin, Shyju, and Arun.
The decision to suspend these officials was based on a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report submitted to the State Police Chief earlier in the week. The incident occurred at a traffic junction near Alappuzha's General Hospital on December 15, 2023. While en route to participate in Nava Kerala Yatra, two Youth Congress workers were assaulted by the police escort.
Background and Details
The alleged assailants confronted the youth congress protesters when they attempted to approach the bus carrying Pinarayi Vijayan and other Cabinet ministers. The former CM's gunman and his security team reportedly resorted to using lathis (staves) in a violent manner, leading to the assault.
When questioned about the incident, Pinarayi Vijayan sarcastically commented, "It was an act of rescue." In reality, it was reported that these policemen were on duty and had been tasked with providing Z category security; they claimed their actions fell under the purview of their job responsibilities as defined by the Kerala Police Act.
However, the SIT's findings contradicted official claims. The investigation team uncovered tampered case diaries, corroborated Youth Congress workers' testimonies through video evidence, and subsequently identified three additional police personnel in connection with these allegations.
Investigative Findings
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) revealed that the original case diary had been falsified. Upon further examination of witness statements by A D Thomas MLA and others, evidence confirmed their accounts. This comprehensive probe was initiated right after a change in government led by the UDF party, with Chief Minister V D Satheeshan announcing its establishment soon after.
The suspension action reflects a significant move towards accountability for alleged misuse of authority during political events. It underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, especially around the protection and handling of VIPs amidst public demonstrations and protests.
