Kerala police investigates alleged harassment of Dalit women in Belokada police station

Kerala police investigated alleged custody harassment of a Dalit woman at the Perokada Police Station after the alleged theft.

Bindu R. worked only three days after the employer filed a complaint, when she was working in the Ambalamukku house on April 14, until the production was discontinued on April 19.

She was allegedly called to the police station around 3.30 pm and was “detained” for nearly 20 hours. While at the station, Ms. Bindu claimed she had received inhuman treatment, including being told to drink water from the bathroom when she asked for it. She claimed that the officer forced her to admit theft, threatening to hint at her two underage daughters and husband.

Despite searching for her residence, she booked under Article 306 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) (theft by a clerk or servant). She also claimed she spent the night at the police station and was not denied food until the next afternoon.

The allegations were finally revealed when the complainant told the police that the missing gold necklace was found in his residence. Ms. Bindu has since filed a formal complaint with the Chief Minister, the State Police Complaints Bureau and the State SC/ST Committee. The committee initiated an investigation and directed the Thiruvananthapuram City police to submit reports in this regard.

Seeking actions against police

Opposition leader VD Satheesan called for strict legal proceedings against officials involved in the issue. He also criticized the Ministry of the Interior’s view on correcting the complainant’s complaint. He further claimed that the department lacked accountability and that political sponsorship of law enforcement could abuse power. He said the police’s actions constituted a serious violation of human rights and the law.