Published May 26, 2026 | 9:56 PM ⚊ Updated May 26, 2026 | 9:56 PM
Kerala police. (Supplied)
Synopsis: State Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar ordered the suspension of Anil Kumar, who served as Vijayan’s personal security officer for nearly 25 years, along with S. Sandeep, Arun, Vipin and Shyju, who were part of the Chief Minister’s escort team.
Five police personnel, including members of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s security detail, have been suspended following the findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the assault of Youth Congress and KSU activists during the Nava Kerala Sadas programme in Alappuzha in December 2023.
State Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar ordered the suspension of Anil Kumar, who served as Vijayan’s personal security officer for nearly 25 years, along with S. Sandeep, Arun, Vipin and Shyju, who were part of the Chief Minister’s escort team.
The action comes after the SIT, headed by Crime Branch SP AP Shoukathali, submitted its interim report to police headquarters.
The probe reportedly concluded that there was no operational necessity for the security personnel to intervene against the protesters and that the assault constituted a criminal act warranting serious charges, including attempt to murder.
The incident occurred on 5 December, 2023, near the General Hospital Junction in Alappuzha, when Youth Congress State Secretary Ajay Jewel Kuriakose and KSU district president AD Thomas staged a protest in front of the Chief Minister’s bus during the Nava Kerala Sadas.
According to the probe findings, members of the Chief Minister’s security and escort team allegedly jumped out of their vehicles and physically assaulted the protesters. Thomas has since been elected as the MLA from Alappuzha.
The suspensions were ordered shortly after the SIT report reached the State Police Chief, even as a court was considering anticipatory bail petitions filed by two of the accused officers.
The suspended personnel will now face departmental proceedings in addition to the criminal investigation.
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The SIT has also reportedly raised questions about the role of former Law and Order ADGP M R Ajith Kumar.
The report is understood to have alleged that he influenced the earlier investigation and sought changes to the case diary.
Sources indicate that the government is considering further action against the former ADGP, with a separate inquiry likely to be initiated before any final decision is taken.
The case was reinvestigated after the UDF government assumed office and constituted the Special Investigation Team to re-examine the circumstances surrounding the controversial assault.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Tuesday, 26 May, said that the State Police Chief will act on the SIT report.
