Kerala High Court Delivers Justice with Rs 14 Lakh Compensation for Wrongful Arrest
The Kerala High Court has delivered a significant verdict, awarding Rs 14 lakh in compensation to an NRI man and his family members. This ruling comes after the man endured a wrongful arrest and 54 days in jail during what should have been a joyous family occasion.
A Wedding Celebration Turns Into a Nightmare
V K Thajudheen, an overseas employee working in Qatar, returned to his home state of Kerala in June. He came on a brief 15-day leave with one primary purpose: to conduct his daughter's marriage. Instead of celebrating, his visit turned into a harrowing ordeal.
While returning from his sister's house, police officers stopped Thajudheen's vehicle. They requested his help to lift their jeep, which had become stuck in mud. Thajudheen explained he suffered from back pain and remained seated in his car. The police allegedly insisted he exit the vehicle.
What followed was a series of traumatic events. Officers reportedly dragged him from the car and took his photographs. They declared him a thief and threatened severe consequences if he did not confess to crimes he did not commit.
False Implication and Public Humiliation
The police implicated Thajudheen in a gold chain-snatching case registered at the Chakkarakkal police station. This false accusation led to his arrest and detention.
During the investigation, authorities subjected him to public humiliation. Police paraded him through public places and the houses of his near relatives. They exposed him to what the court later described as both public and media trials.
This treatment caused immense mental agony and trauma for Thajudheen. The timing made matters worse. His daughter's marriage was fixed for a near date, adding tremendous stress to the entire family.
Court's Scathing Observations and Compensation Award
Justice P M Manoj of the Kerala High Court heard the case and made strong observations about police conduct. The court noted that investigating authorities failed to exercise proper care and caution. Had they reanalyzed collected materials with diligence, this unfortunate incident could have been avoided.
The police provided no clear response to allegations of defaming Thajudheen. They offered no specific answer regarding the damage caused to his reputation in society for a crime he did not commit.
Justice Manoj disposed of the writ petition by granting substantial compensation. The court awarded Rs 10 lakh to Thajudheen himself. It further granted Rs 1 lakh each to four family members: his wife and children.
The compensation recognizes their suffering of mental agony, trauma, defamation, and harassment at the hands of police officials.
Broader Implications and Future Actions
The court's direction carries important implications for police accountability. Justice Manoj stated this ruling should ensure police officers do not indulge in such irresponsible conduct. It should serve as a deterrent against similar actions by other officials in the future.
The compensation award does not prevent the family from pursuing civil remedies against the erring officers. They may seek additional damages for the harm they sustained.
Extended Suffering Beyond Indian Borders
Thajudheen's troubles continued even after he left India. When he returned to his workplace in Qatar, authorities there imprisoned him for 23 days. This detention allegedly occurred because his wrongful arrest in India caused him to overstay his leave.
The NRI man initially approached the High Court seeking Rs 1 crore in compensation. He cited mental shock, agony, anguish, pain, loss of employment, and subsequent incarceration in Qatar as grounds for his claim.
While the court awarded a lower amount than requested, the Rs 14 lakh compensation represents significant judicial recognition of the grave injustice suffered by Thajudheen and his family during what should have been their happiest moments.
