Kerala's Custodial Crisis: Opposition Demands Accountability

Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, faced strong criticism from the opposition in the assembly over alleged custodial torture incidents. The opposition demanded his resignation from the Home portfolio and the removal of accused officers. A boycott followed the unsatisfactory response, with some MLAs initiating a hunger strike.

In a heated assembly session, Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured that any police officers found guilty of misconduct would face strict consequences, even as the opposition strongly criticized his handling of alleged custodial torture cases.

The United Democratic Front (UDF) demanded Vijayan relinquish his Home portfolio following accusations of police brutality. Opposition legislators walked out of the session citing an unsatisfactory response from the Chief Minister.

Highlighting past police misconduct under United Democratic Front rule, Vijayan claimed that his government has made substantial reforms in police policy. However, opposition leaders, led by V D Satheesan, insisted on action and accountability, setting the stage for an indefinite hunger strike.

(With inputs from agencies.)