Crime Branch Exposes False Theft Charge Against Dalit Woman by Peroorkada Police

Rapid Summary

• A Crime branch inquiry confirmed that Dalit woman Bindhu R. was falsely implicated in the theft of a gold necklace by Peroorkada police.
• The necklace, originally believed stolen, was later found misplaced under a sofa at the residence where Bindhu worked as domestic help.Despite this finding, police fabricated claims that it was retrieved from outside a garbage heap.
• Bindhu endured unlawful detention and custodial harassment, including being denied food and water overnight and prevented from meeting her family.
• Sub-Inspector Prasad S.G. and Assistant Sub-Inspector Prasannakumar have been suspended; further action has been recommended against then-station house officer R. Sivakumar, who had earlier been transferred.
• The Kerala State Human Rights Commission called for the investigation, wiht a separate inquiry underway into custodial harassment on orders from the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes Commission.
• Ms. Daniel (complainant), her daughter Nisha, and suspended officers now face charges following public backlash.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The findings underscore troubling instances of misuse of power within law enforcement institutions in Kerala-a concern with broad implications for accountability in policing practices across India. Cases like these highlight systemic vulnerabilities such as bias against marginalized communities or procedural lapses leading to custodial harassment.Although suspensions signal administrative actions to address misconduct allegations, broader reforms may be needed to restore trust among affected populations and ensure safeguards against recurrence.

This incident showcases how timely interventions by human rights commissions can shine light on injustice while prompting institutional introspection. Continued oversight mechanisms alongside fair judicial proceedings can serve both justice for victims like Ms. Bindhu R., while deterring similar violations in future cases.

Read more: Kerala Police Suspends Officer For Wrongful Detention Of Dalit Woman