R. Sugatan’s arrest
The arrest of BJP councillor R. Sugatan by Kerala Police on the night of June 9 has triggered a political controversy, with BJP leaders alleging excessive use of force, intimidation of family members, and misuse of the police machinery. The incident drew strong protests from Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh, who accused the police of creating fear by surrounding the councillor’s residence, firing in the air, and allegedly pointing guns at family members, including children, during the operation.
V.V. Rajesh said that the police force that invaded BJP councillor R. Sugatan’s house on the night of June 9 pointed guns even at the children. Speaking to media persons in Delhi, where he was protesting against the police high-handedness shown at Sugatan’s house, Rajesh alleged that Vattiyoorkkavu Police Circle Inspector Bipin was on leave but returned to duty and created a fearful atmosphere. He alleged that the Circle Inspector acted under pressure from a former CPM MLA.
The Mayor questioned what situation warranted such an incident. He questioned the need for firing in the air and pointing guns at children at midnight. He also asked why it was necessary to surround Sugatan’s house in order to arrest him.
Police said that he had been detained under the KAPA (Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act). However, Rajesh alleged that sections of the media echoed the police version without checking the proper documents. He alleged that the police spread false information.
He stated that Vattiyoorkkavu Police had been taking similar actions against several BJP workers in the area. It is said that the case originated from a dispute concerning the use of a microphone at a temple in Vellakkadavu.
The Mayor said that he too was accused in several cases. He asked whether that meant he would also have to face the same situation. Sugatan had moved the High Court seeking anticipatory bail. It was rejected, and he was asked to surrender before the police within ten days.
By that time, symptoms of chickenpox had appeared on his body. A petition seeking two days’ relief was filed, and it was scheduled to be heard on June 10. Then came what Rajesh described as the “midnight drama” on the night of June 9.
The Mayor alleged that Vattiyoorkkavu Circle Inspector Bipin had a criminal mindset and that there were numerous complaints against him.
According to Rajesh, the State Police Chief had been convinced of these complaints and Bipin had been placed on compulsory leave. However, he alleged that a former LDF (CPM-led Left Democratic Front) MLA visited the City Police Commissioner’s office and pressed for Bipin’s return to duty. Rajesh challenged media persons to verify his claims independently.
Sugatan’s wife said there was no need for such a show of strength. She stated that as soon as the police asked Sugatan to accompany them, he merely requested time to put on his shirt. She said that there was nobody else in the house apart from her children and her sister-in-law. BJP leaders questioned whether anyone intending to abscond would hide in his own house.
