The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to order a comprehensive judicial inquiry into the tragic suicide of Haryana IPS officer Y Puran Kumar, citing serious concerns over caste-based harassment within the police force.
The demand comes after a CPI(M) delegation led by party General Secretary M A Baby visited the grieving family of the late officer. The delegation also included senior leaders B V Raghavulu, Prem Chand, Inderjit Singh, and R L Moudgil. Following the visit, Baby penned a strongly worded letter to the Prime Minister, urging immediate action.
“We are deeply anguished by the death of Shri Y. Puran Kumar, who reportedly ended his life after suffering caste discrimination from certain officials,” the letter stated. “This incident has sent shockwaves across the nation and raises urgent questions about the working conditions and protections for officers from marginalized communities in the police service.”
Drawing attention to a wider pattern of systemic caste oppression, the CPI(M) referenced similar tragedies, including the suicide of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula at Hyderabad Central University. “The relentless institutional harassment faced by Dalit students and officers remains a grave stain on our democracy,” the letter emphasized.
The party also highlighted the heartfelt grief and plea for justice expressed by Kumar’s family during the delegation’s visit. “Their testimony demands an independent and transparent investigation to discover the truth and provide closure,” the letter read.
The CPI(M) demanded the constitution of a Supreme Court–led judicial inquiry to thoroughly examine the circumstances of Kumar’s death, the caste harassment allegations, and any lapses by the institutions involved.
It also called for the immediate suspension of all officials named by the deceased to prevent any interference with the probe.
“A transparent and impartial judicial inquiry will not only bring solace to the bereaved family but also reaffirm India’s commitment to constitutional values and protection against discrimination,” the letter concluded.
The call from the CPI(M) adds to growing public discourse on the urgent need to address caste-based discrimination within India’s law enforcement agencies and ensure justice for marginalized officers. The Left also demands Supreme Court probe into Puran Kumar’s suicide over caste harassment claims.