Kerala HC seeks DGP’s reply on viral video of police officer abusing lawyer

The Kerala High Court sought the response of the state police chief after a video of a police officer abusing a lawyer went viral on social media.
The viral video is that of an officer of Alathur police station in which he is seen allegedly using “abusive vocatives” against a lawyer, who approached them with a court order in connection with a case.

Subsequently, it was observed that the conduct of the police officer was not merely an affront to the directions of the court but also against the circular issued by the state police chief.

A bench of Justice Devan Ramachandran adjourned the matter for further hearing after 10 days. Additionally, DGP Sheikh Darvesh Sahib was asked to appear before the court online for an interaction to take stock of the future cause of action.

Earlier, the High Court had directed the DGP to ensure the maintenance of integrity of policing system by reminding officers that they have “an unexpendable obligation” to treat citizens, regardless of their status, with dignity and civility. “However, though the judgment of this court is stated to be wholly complied with, instances as afore submitted still appear to be happening; and that is why this matter has been kept pending, for obtaining reports from the police chief from time to time,” Justice Ramachandran said.

The Court showcased distress regarding the imperative requirement of the police officers to act in a civilised manner to citizens is required to be restated time and again. “The state police chief must keep in mind that it is not sufficient that circulars are issued, but that they are implemented in its letter and spirit, through appropriate measures,” the court said. Additionally, the court said that if the aforementioned incident is true, then it reveals the utter disregard of circulars of the state police chief by officers under him.
“This is unacceptable,” the court stated.