THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government ordered a judicial probe into the Marangattupally custodial death in the Assembly on Monday, but the Opposition LDF disrupted the proceedings demanding the filing of a murder case against Mr George Kutty, former sub-inspector of Marangattupally.
As the Opposition created noisy scenes in the well of the House and near the Speaker's dais during zero hour, Speaker N. Sakthan rushed through the proceedings and adjourned the House for the day within a few minutes.
Home minister Ramesh Chennithala, while replying to an adjournment notice, said that there was serious lapse on the part of the police in providing treatment to the Dalit youth Siby.
Hence, the sub-inspector was placed under suspension and a Crime Branch probe ordered. The probe will also look into any atrocities against Siby’s parents as there were allegations that they were asked to clean the lock-up room.
Assistance from the Chief Minister's distress relief fund would be given to Siby’s family. The form of judicial probe will be decided after discussions with opposition deputy leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan.
Denying the Opposition’s allegation that the police did not register a case against the assault on Siby, he said two cases were registered in connection with the June 29 incident, one on the basis of the statement of Amal, 16, who was allegedly beaten by Siby, and a counter case on the basis of Siby’s friend Thomas Joseph's statement.
Alleging that the government was trying to protect the sub-inspector, who was a leader of the police association, the Opposition insisted on registering a murder case against George Kutty and also demanded his immediate arrest.
While Opposition Leader V.S. Achuthanandan alleged that the government was taking the custodial death of a dalit very lightly, CPM leader K. Radhakrishnan who gave the adjournment notice alleged that the police did not initiate any action against those who assaulted Siby until his death. Kerala Congress (M) MLA Mons Joseph said there was serious lapse on the part of the police in giving treatment to Siby.
