Caught on camera: CPM workers block police vehicle, hurl abuse in Thiruvananthapuram; two detained

Thiruvananthapuram: Two CPM workers were detained and a case registered against nine persons for allegedly abusing and threatening police personnel in Nagaroor here prompting sharp condemnation from the Kerala Police Officers’ Association (KPOA).

According to police, local CPM leaders Vishnu and Ratheesh were taken into custody on Friday evening after they allegedly obstructed a police vehicle and issued threats to officers on duty. The action followed an earlier incident on February 25, when CPM workers allegedly damaged a Congress party flex board after a protest at Jawahar Junction in Nagaroor.

Based on a complaint lodged by Congress, police had registered a case and subsequently served notices at the residences of those accused. Officers said that while a team led by Sub-Inspector Anzar N was returning after delivering the notices on Friday, a group intercepted their vehicle and verbally abused the officials.

The group allegedly threatened the officer before bystanders intervened and dispersed them, police said.

Later that night, Nagaroor police formally registered a case, and a squad led by the Attingal DySP detained the two accused.

The FIR invokes Section 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from discharging duty) and Section 296(b) (causing public annoyance by doing an obscene act) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Section 117(e) of the Kerala Police Act, which pertains to threatening, obstructing or assaulting a police officer in the discharge of duty.

In a statement, KPOA general secretary C R Biju said protests and agitations are democratic rights of citizens and organisations.

However, he said that when complaints arise in connection with such protests, it is natural for the police to register cases and conduct investigations as part of their official duties.

The association alleged that the officers were subjected to verbal abuse, threats and unruly behaviour, which it termed "highly regrettable".

It also called upon political organisations to distance themselves from individuals who adopt such "highly objectionable" positions.

Appealing for public support, the KPOA said that when police proceed with firm legal measures against those involved in unlawful activities, society should stand with them.

PTI