A senior police officer in Kerala has been suspended following serious allegations of sexual misconduct made by a woman colleague while they were on duty at a coastal police station. The swift action was taken by the Kollam city police commissioner after the victim filed a formal complaint detailing the incident.
Details of the Alleged Assault
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of November 6, 2025. According to the official complaint, the woman officer had just finished her patrol, or 'Parav' duty, and was walking towards the rest area at the Neendakara coastal police station in Kollam district. It was at this moment that the accused officer, identified as senior civil police officer Navas, allegedly confronted her.
Navas, who was on deputation to the coastal station, was reportedly standing near the men's restroom. The complaint states that he groped the woman officer and hurled abuses at her. Showing immense courage and presence of mind, the victim immediately reported the traumatic experience to her senior officer present at the station.
Swift Police Action and Investigation
Acting promptly on the complaint, Kollam City Police Commissioner Kiran Narayan ordered the suspension of officer Navas on Wednesday. Narayan described the alleged behavior as 'demeaning to the service' and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts within the force.
A criminal case has been registered at the Chavara police station under relevant sections of the law pertaining to assault and obscenity. As part of the initial investigation, authorities have seized and are examining the CCTV footage from the police station premises to gather evidence.
While Navas has not been arrested at this stage, police sources confirm that a thorough internal inquiry and departmental action have been initiated alongside the criminal proceedings. The authorities have assured the victim of her safety and stated that further disciplinary and legal measures will be determined based on the findings of the ongoing probe.
Broader Implications and Local Reaction
This case has sparked strong reactions within the local community and among police ranks. It has renewed urgent calls for implementing better safeguards for women serving in police stations across the state. Advocates and community leaders are demanding prompt, transparent, and decisive action in all complaints filed against serving personnel to ensure justice and a safe working environment.
The incident highlights the critical need for robust internal mechanisms to address sexual harassment complaints within the police force. The swift suspension order is seen as a positive first step, but public trust hinges on the transparent and conclusive outcome of the investigations, both criminal and departmental.
