The SC/ST Court in Thrissur has directed the Crime Branch to charge two police officers with abetment to suicide following the death of Dalit youth Vinayakan in Engandiyoor. The decision comes after a petition filed by Vinayakan’s father, seeking justice for his son.
The case dates back to July 17, 2017, when Vinayakan, a 19-year-old, was taken into custody by the Pavaratty police on suspicion of involvement in a chain theft. He was allegedly assaulted by officers Sreejith and Sajan during his detention. The police charged the officers with unlawful detention, assault, intimidation, and violations under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act. However, the initial charge sheet submitted by the Crime Branch did not include charges of abetment to suicide.
Despite the officers being suspended, the charge of abetment to suicide was not initially included in the charges. The court’s recent directive mandates the Crime Branch to add these charges, recognizing the family’s claim that the assault and subsequent humiliation contributed to Vinayakan’s decision to take his own life.
Vinayakan was reportedly released from custody the following day with instructions to cut his hair. He was later found dead by suicide at his home. His family contends that the treatment he endured at the police station led him to despair and ultimately drove him to end his life.
