Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 6 (NationPress) Disciplinary measures are poised to be enacted against four police officers from Kerala implicated in a case of custodial assault in Kunnamkulam, following significant protests led by the Congress party.

Reports submitted by Thrissur Range DIG Harishankar to the North Zone IG advocate for the suspension of the four officers named in the charge sheet, including SI Nuhman and CPOs Sasidharan, Sandeep, and Sajeevan.

The report emphasizes that a criminal case has already been initiated against these officers, warranting their suspension.

Additionally, it recommends a review of the disciplinary actions taken thus far.

Decisions regarding the suspensions are anticipated within the next day.

Footage obtained via a Right to Information (RTI) request depicts Chovannur Youth Congress mandalam President Sujith being brutally assaulted by police officers within the Kunnamkulam police station on April 5, 2023.

Sujiith had allegedly confronted the police officers who were harassing his friends on the roadside, inciting the anger of Sub-Inspector Nuhman.

The video evidence shows Sujith being forcibly taken to the station in a police jeep, his shirt ripped off.

Once inside, he was encircled by more than three officers who continuously struck him on the back and face while forcing him into a crouched position.

Medical examinations later indicated that the assault inflicted hearing damage in one of Sujith's ears. Instead of documenting the assault, the police lodged a false FIR accusing Sujith of creating a disturbance while intoxicated, obstructing duty, and harassing officers.

However, a medical test mandated by the Chavakkad magistrate’s court confirmed that he had not consumed any alcohol.

While the court granted him bail, Sujith endured a lengthy legal struggle to prove his innocence and obtain the CCTV evidence.

Responding to the news of the impending suspension of the four officials, Sujith expressed that mere suspension would not be adequate.

“My party and I have insisted that the accused be dismissed from their positions. A fifth officer, the police driver, has since been reassigned to another department. All five should face termination and criminal charges,” asserted Sujith.

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan echoed this demand, stating that dismissal is the only acceptable response. “The assault occurred not only in monitored areas but also in blind spots. Sujith faced violence even where there were no cameras. The Chief Minister's silence on this grave issue is concerning. If he fails to act, we will demonstrate our response,” he cautioned.