Koppal SP's Report on Minor's Overnight Detention Ignites Fresh Controversy
The clarification submitted by Koppal Superintendent of Police Dr Ram L Arasiddi to the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights regarding the overnight detention of a minor Dalit boy has triggered a renewed storm of criticism and public outrage. This incident, which occurred in Gangavathi city on the night of January 19, involved the detention of the boy on suspicion of theft, raising serious questions about police conduct and child protection protocols.
Details of the Incident and Police Admission
According to the SP's report dated January 26, the sequence of events began around 11 PM on January 19 at the Gangavathi bus stand. Police received a complaint of theft from an individual named Manjunath, who suspected the minor boy of stealing his bag. Upon questioning, the boy reportedly did not provide satisfactory answers, leading to his detention. As a crowd gathered at the scene, the boy was taken to a nearby women's restroom for frisking.
During this time, a person identified as S Maliyappa allegedly recorded the scene and claimed that police had abused the boy. Subsequently, the minor was taken to the Gangavathi city police station. Dr Arasiddi's report admitted that keeping the minor at the police station overnight constituted a dereliction of duty, citing unsuccessful attempts to contact the Koppal Child Welfare Committee and the women's comfort centre due to the late hour.
Criticism and Allegations of Shielding Guilty Personnel
The action has drawn sharp criticism from social activists and child rights advocates, who expressed dissatisfaction over the perceived attempt to shield the guilty police personnel. Activists pointed out that while a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was promptly registered against Maliyappa for recording and sharing a video of the incident, no criminal action had been initiated against the police officers involved in detaining the child.
In his report, Dr Arasiddi cited internal reports from the Gangavathi Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Thavaragera Police Sub-Inspector, which highlighted lapses by the Gangavathi police inspector, PSI, and a head constable. The SP acknowledged their failure to perform duties adequately, leading to disciplinary measures.
Disciplinary Actions and Commission's Response
Disciplinary action was initiated against PSI Nagaraj TG and CHC Virupakshigouda, while a show-cause notice was issued to inspector Prakash Mali. These steps, however, have not quelled the criticism, with many arguing that mere internal disciplinary actions are insufficient given the gravity of the incident.
Responding to the issue, Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairman Shashidhar Kosambe stated that the commission would thoroughly examine whether prescribed procedures were flouted in this case. The commission's scrutiny is expected to focus on compliance with child protection laws and the adequacy of the police response.
Broader Implications for Child Rights and Police Accountability
This incident underscores ongoing concerns about police accountability and the treatment of minors, particularly from marginalized communities like Dalits. The overnight detention of a child in a police station, despite legal provisions mandating alternative shelter, highlights systemic issues in law enforcement practices.
As the controversy unfolds, it raises critical questions about the implementation of child rights safeguards in Karnataka and the need for stricter oversight to prevent such lapses in the future. The outcome of the commission's examination could have significant implications for police training and procedural reforms in the state.
