CCTV Footage From Kerala Police Station Sparks Outrage

A video from inside the Kunnamkulam police station in Kerala has shocked the state. CCTV cameras caught policemen beating up a Youth Congress worker, sparking anger from the public and politicians alike.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor reacted strongly, calling it “brazen police brutality.” He said police stations were turning into “torture chambers” and demanded that the officers not only be suspended but removed from service and prosecuted.

However, the police say the matter was already dealt with. Thrissur Range DIG S. Harishankar explained that an inquiry had been held two years ago and the three officers involved had only faced a minor punishment—their pay increments were stopped. He also said the case is “closed” and will not be reopened.

This has only added to the anger. Many feel that stopping increments is a weak response to what is clearly custodial violence. The footage has once again raised questions about police accountability and the lack of strong action against officers who misuse their power.

As human rights defenders, we believe the case is a reminder that justice cannot end with token punishments. CCTV cameras may expose the truth, but without real accountability, trust in the police will only erode further.