What Actions Are Being Taken Over Custodial Torture in Kerala Assembly?

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 16 (NationPress) The Congress-led Opposition in Kerala has ramped up its demonstrations against the Pinarayi Vijayan government regarding custodial violence, with Leader of the Opposition (LoP) V.D. Satheesan declaring a 'satyagraha' in the foyer of the state Assembly on Tuesday.

The Assembly was marked by intense discussions as the Opposition highlighted the problem of widespread police excesses, focusing particularly on the Kunnamkulam custodial torture case.

This incident, involving the severe assault of a Congress worker while in police custody two years ago, gained renewed attention this month when disturbing footage of the event surfaced, igniting public fury.

When Chief Minister Vijayan declined to take further disciplinary action against the four police officers currently under suspension, the Opposition proceeded to walk out of the House.

Satheesan, leading the protest, accused the Chief Minister of exhibiting “Stalinist tendencies” and asserted that the Opposition would resist such behavior.

“With no further action taken against the police officials who assaulted our worker, two of our legislators will start an indefinite protest in the Assembly foyer,” the LoP stated.

Opposition MLAs Saneesh Kumar and A.K.M. Ashraf will lead the sit-in protest, which the Opposition has vowed to sustain until meaningful action is taken.

“Justice cannot be postponed any longer. The police officers responsible must be held accountable immediately,” Satheesan emphasized.

In response to the accusations, Chief Minister Vijayan defended his government's history, stating that in the nine years since taking office, action has been taken against 144 police officials for misconduct.

“No state government has acted as decisively as we have. Additionally, we should not overlook the police excesses faced by our CPI-M cadres during previous Congress administrations,” Satheesan countered.

This issue has taken center stage in political discussions recently, with reports of custodial violence not just in Kunnamkulam but also in Peechi, located in the Thrissur district.

Reports of similar incidents in other areas have heightened concerns about police conduct and accountability.

With local body elections approaching and only ten days remaining in the Assembly session, political analysts anticipate turbulent proceedings ahead.

The Opposition seems committed to maintaining pressure on the Kerala government, utilizing custodial violence as a key element in its campaign against the CPI-M.