'Police can open fire in self-defence'; Kerala DGP responds to Aryancode incident

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar told 'Kerala Kaumudi' that the police have the right to open fire in self-defence. He was talking about the issue in the wake of the increasing number of attacks on police. The Aryancode SHO had to open fire on a KAAPA case accused who attacked him with a sword while evading arrest.

Injuring the police is a non-bailable offence punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The police, formerly considered a nightmare of criminals and mafias, are now being attacked by ruffians in broad daylight without any ounce of fear.

The police leadership instructed officials to carry a pistol while going to arrest and even gave permission to shoot in self-defence. Guns can be used to subdue attackers and save people.

Obstructing a government official in the performance of his official duties can result in a two-year prison sentence. Injuring a police officer on duty is punishable by a three-year prison sentence. Injuring him seriously can result in 10 years in prison. Raising one's hands against the police, blocking a vehicle, using force, and obstructing police operations all fall under the scope of these crimes.

Throwing bombs or explosives is also a serious crime under the Explosive Substances Act. A 10-year prison sentence and a fine can be imposed. All these are non-bailable offences.

Recent attacks on police in Kerala:

• In Thrissur, police were attacked with a stick during a goon's birthday celebration

• In Kazhakoottam, a policeman was hit on the head with a wire while preventing a riot during a festival.

• In Kannur, three ice cream bombs were thrown at a patrol jeep.

• In Kaniyapuram, a petrol bomb and an axe were thrown at the police.

• In Kasaragod, an ASI at the Bekal station was hacked to death

• In Kadakkal, a pepper spray was used when a cannabis sale was caught.

• In Varkala, the railway police were attacked for catching a thief on a train

• In Kannur, an SI was stabbed with a car key during a vehicle inspection.

• In Parippally, the aid post at the Government Medical College was attacked, and an official's uniform was torn.

• Attacked the police and damaged a jeep at Kannur Public Market

• At Kadinamkulam station, the accused arrested in the KAAPA case attacked the police.

• At Vizhinjam station, police officers were attacked en masse.