The case centres on Bindu, a domestic worker from Chullimanoor, who was detained for nearly 20 hours on 23 April after her landlord accused her of stealing a gold necklace
Published May 18, 2025 | 6:54 PM ⚊ Updated May 18, 2025 | 6:54 PM
Dalit woman's harassment complaint against Kerala police sparks outrage, Satheesan demands probe
Synopsis: A Dalit domestic worker’s claim of police harassment at Peroorkada station has sparked public outrage in Kerala. Opposition leader V D Satheesan demanded a departmental probe and legal action, blaming government inaction and political interference for enabling such abuse. Civil society groups and political parties have also rallied behind the victim, condemning the alleged mistreatment and police excess
A Dalit domestic worker’s allegation of police harassment at the Peroorkada police station has triggered widespread outrage in Kerala, drawing sharp criticism from Opposition parties and civil society groups.
The incident has prompted Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan to demand a departmental inquiry and strict legal action against the officers involved.
Satheesan lambasted the state government and the Home Department for their silence on the matter, stating that unchecked politicisation of the police force has led to such gross misuse of power.
“This is not an isolated incident. Who gave these officers the right to illegally detain and mentally torture an innocent woman?” he asked.
The controversy revolves around Bindu, a domestic worker from Chullimanoor, who was taken into custody on 23 April based on an allegation by her landlord that she had stolen a gold necklace weighing two and a half sovereigns.
Bindu, who was returning home from work in Ambalamukku, was summoned to the Peroorkada station, where she claims she was held for nearly 20 hours.
During her detention, she alleges, she was denied water, not allowed to contact her family, and was threatened with the arrest of her daughters unless she confessed.
Her family was unaware of her detention until the police brought her home later that night.
The next morning, the landlord reportedly acknowledged that the necklace had been found. However, Bindu claims the sub-inspector warned her not to disclose the incident.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
