CM Satheesan's strict warning to 'Criminal Thoppis’

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister VD Satheesan, in his budget, gave a sly warning to police officers who conspire with criminals and cover up cases. There will be strong action against those who sabotage cases of violence against women and children. Strict action will also be taken against those who insult women on social media. ‘Makkalkoppam’ scheme will be introduced to prevent crimes against women. Night patrolling will be strengthened in cities. Women will be made SHOs in more stations. 'Kerala Kaumudi' had earlier run a series on crimes in the police published under the name 'Criminal Thoppi’.

The Left government, during their time in power, took a stance to dismiss officials from force if found sabotaging cases. The decision to file criminal cases against those with illicit relations was later overturned. Action was limited to good conduct or transfer. The internal vigilance cells, which were supposed to detect sabotage in cases, are also inactive. Currently, the severest punishment for sabotaging an investigation is suspension. Or they will be transferred from the local station to the camp. There will be minor punishments, such as 15 days of good conduct and training.

If it is found that they have conspired or aided criminal activities, or if it is proven that they are involved in a conspiracy, a criminal case will be filed against the police officers. In case of custodial torture or false accusations, the compensation awarded by the courts will be collected from the guilty police officers. If they are found to have misbehaved with the people, tortured them, made friends with the mafia, or mistreated women and children, they will not be given the responsibility of maintaining law and order.

👉 Regular troublemakers can be dismissed by applying Section-86 of the Police Act.

👉 If they are mentally, physically or behaviourally unfit to perform the duties of the police, they can be dismissed.

👉 Those who have been convicted of violence and immorality, and those accused, can be dismissed and compulsorily made to retire.

👉 In the 55,000-member force, 1.56 per cent have criminal cases. 98.44 per cent are not involved in crimes. It is estimated that there are 828 criminal cases in the police.