THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suicide among police officials has shockingly grown in numbers in Kerala. Impossible to take care of a pregnant wife, attend to parents on their deathbed, and not attend jovial family gatherings are part and parcel of the police life. The unassailable stress and the marathon work have kept the officials away from the simple joys of life. For many, there is only one way out of this labyrinthine mess — end life.

The DGP's circular mentions that superiors should allow leave for officials for their children’s birthdays or in case of family emergencies. But it is brazenly being breached. From May 2016 to June 2024, 130 police officers committed suicide in the state. There were about 300 suicide attempts. More than 900 policemen applied for self-retirement. About 200 people have retired recently. Not being able to bear the workload and the resulting mental stress have pushed many to select suicide as the last option.

According to the rules, police officials shall only do a duty of eight hours. But there are stations where officials are forced to work more than 12-18 hours. Along with this comes harassment and abuse by superior officers and severe punishment for trivial offences. Counselling and yoga have been tried to make policemen mentally stronger. A committee consisting of psychologists was also formed to bring respite.

The DGP ordered that mentally disturbed officials be sent for counselling and that period be considered as duty hours. Despite all the measures, the suicide episode continues within Kerala police. Among those who lost their lives were 2 DySPs, 7CIs and 19SIs.

"Most of the reasons for suicide are mental stress from family, financial and health problems. Although there are also some official reasons too”, said CM Pinarayi Vijayan.