KOTTAYAM: The High Court has criticized the police in the incident of a CPM leader attacking a private bus owner in Thiruvarpu. The Police Department was criticized by the Kerala High Court for failing to effectively enforce a protective order granted to the bus owner.

The Kottayam district police chief and station house officer were present in the court. The bus owner was attacked while the police protection order was in place. The attack was in the presence of the police officers. The court also reminded the police that they are responsible for the protection of citizens.

The court also said that the approach from the police was wrong and that if such incidents occur the public will feel that even if they come to the court, they will not get justice. The court stated that the slap was on the face of the court and not the bus owner. The court also asked the police if there was any investigation into the attack, and the court expressed doubt that the police also played a role.

The court asked that the case be heard on the 18th and Kumarakom SHO and DySP should submit an affidavit and appear in person on that day. The court asked how the bus owner was assaulted despite the provision of police protection and clarified that the court should be informed about the investigation conducted by the police in the incident.