Dalit Woman harassed in custody: More police officers likely to face action

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Disciplinary action is likely against several officers of the Peroorkada police station, including a Grade ASI, a CPO, and two female police officers, in connection with the alleged mental harassment of 39-year-old Dalit woman R. Bindu, who was held in custody for 21 hours over a false accusation of necklace theft.

Sub-Inspector S.G. Prasad was already suspended the other day. Yesterday, statements were recorded from police personnel at the station. Bindu has also levelled allegations against SHO R. Sivakumar.

City Police Commissioner Thomson Jose told Kerala Kaumudi that Bindu’s custody was unnecessary and that a wrong decision led to the issue. He acknowledged that the denial of food was also a lapse. The Commissioner has reviewed CCTV footage showing Bindu being made to sit on the floor with paper spread beneath her, and later on a stool in front of the lock-up. Audio recordings of alleged verbal abuse are also being examined. Further action will follow based on this evidence. Bindu had submitted a complaint to the DGP, which was forwarded to the Commissioner.

The ADGP (Law & Order) H. Venkatesh has instructed a thorough investigation into questions such as whether the complaint was fabricated and how the necklace, initially reported stolen, was later found among the waste.

If needed, the investigation may be handed over to the district Crime Branch. The Women’s Commission has also demanded an inquiry into the false complaint and that all responsible individuals be identified.

Police’s version against Bindu

According to the police, Bindu had stated that the necklace was either with a friend or at her house, which prompted a search of her home. They also claimed that she was never confined inside a cell. At the time, the cell was occupied by two individuals accused in an MDMA drug case. Instead, Bindu was made to sit outside the cell, either on a stool or on paper spread on the floor, before being moved to the women’s restroom.

Denied water, told to drink from toilet?
Police have denied Bindu’s allegation that she was denied drinking water and told to drink from the toilet. They argue that CCTV footage shows Bindu asking for water, and an officer pointing toward a location where a bottle was placed. The footage reportedly shows Bindu going to and returning from that spot. However, there is no CCTV coverage at the location where the bottle was kept.

"Strict action will be taken against officers who do not treat people with dignity at police stations."
– ADGP H. Venkatesh
(Law & Order)