Parties demand CBI probe into DSP suicide

Chennai: Opposition parties in the state including DMK and DMDK on Sunday demanded CBI probe into the suicide of Tiruchengode DSP R. Vishnupriya allegedly due to harassment by superiors.

The 27-year-old DSP, who was an investigating officer in the murder case of Dalit youth Gokul Raj, was found hanging in her residence-cum-office complex on Friday.

In a statement, DMK president M. Karunanidhi said the comments made by the DSP’s father and those involved in the case, as appeared in a section of media cannot be ‘neglected’ and therefore the case had to be transferred to CBI. “As requested by various sections of society, in order to bring out the facts, the case has to be transferred to CBI,” he said. He also wanted the Madras High Court to monitor the investigation to bring out the facts.

Opposition leader and DMDK president Vijayakanth said the suicide of woman DSP has created shock and fear among women officers.

“The death of Vishnupriya seven months after joining the police service raises several doubts. Who was responsible for the suicide of police officer who has responsibility and duty to save the life of people? Did the higher officers put pressure on her?” he asked. He demanded that the state government hand over the case to CBI.

Rejecting the state government's decision to order CBCID probe, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee chief EVKS Elangovan said the party would hold a demonstration in Chennai on September 23 seeking a CBI inquiry.

CPI (M) state secretary G Ramakrishnan raised doubts over the contents of the suicide note allegedly left by the woman officer.

“In the suicide note said to have been left by her, she has stated that there was no link between her suicide and Gokul Raj murder case and also not to make it into a political issue. The questions are being raised whether one committing suicide will write such a letter,” he noted.

VCK chief Thol. Thirumavalavan demanded a CBI probe into both Vishnupriya and Gokul Raj cases. He also demanded a judicial probe into undue pressure faced by women officers from their higher ups.