SI transferred after probe into alleged custodial torture in Kerala's Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta (Kerala), Jul 9 (PTI) A police Sub-Inspector has been transferred after a departmental inquiry found significant lapses on his part following allegations of custodial torture against him during investigation of a POCSO case, officials said on Thursday. Koodal Sub-Inspector (SI) Jayamohan has been transferred to the Pathanamthitta District Police Headquarters following the departmental inquiry, which confirmed procedural and operational lapses on his part, they said. The disciplinary action from the District Police Chief comes after allegations surfaced that police personnel assaulted individuals taken into custody in connection with an alleged sexual harassment complaint lodged by a 13-year-old girl which later turned false. Six persons, including minors and two adults, were detained by Koodal police as part of the investigation. Among them was a 20-year-old youth suffering from a cardiac condition, who later submitted a complaint to the home minister alleging that he was subjected to custodial torture during interrogation. A departmental probe conducted by the Special Branch Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) confirmed significant lapses on the part of the local police, officials said. Based on the findings, the DySP submitted a report to the Pathanamthitta District Police Chief, who forwarded it to higher authorities, leading to the immediate transfer of SI Jayamohan. The inquiry also found lapses on the part of the Circle Inspector in charge of the station, and disciplinary action is expected to be initiated by the Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG), officials said. Last week, Koodal police registered two cases after the teenager approached Childline alleging that she had been sexually harassed by several persons, including her classmates. However, following her medical examination and the recording of her statement before a magistrate, the allegations were found to be false. Police have since decided to initiate steps to close the cases. PTI TBA TBA KH