Dramatic scenes unfolded in Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, as police arrested a BJP councillor facing preventive detention under the KAAPA.
Sugathan, BJP councillor of the Vazhottukonam ward under the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, was taken into custody on Tuesday night from his residence, PTI reported.
This came after the Kerala High Court denied him anticipatory bail in connection with the alleged assault case linked to a temple festival.
According to officials, police resorted to firing in the air to disperse the crowd and to prevent further violence in the region.
It all started when a police tem reached Sugathan’s residence to execute the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) detention order. A large number of people, allegedly BJP workers, surrounded the police officials and even attempted to obstruct the arrest, according to reports.
Due to this, police officials had to fire into the air to disperse the crowd and ensure their own safety. Post that, Sugathan was taken into custody.
Later on, he was sent for medical examination and then shifted to jail.
According to police, Sugathan is accused in multiple criminal cases. The action was taken against him after he failed to appear before police, despite being directed by a court to do so.
Meanwhile, another case has been registered against Sugathan and four others in connection with the Tuesday night incident. This case is related to the alleged assault of public servants and obstructing them from performing their duties.
As per the FIR in the new case, Sugathan allegedly pushed and attempted to assault the Vattiyoorkavu police inspector along with a sub-inspector who were part of the arrest team.
It further states that other accused joined him in the attack, causing injuries to police personnel. Among those injured were Vattiyoorkavu Circle Inspector Vipin and Sub-Inspector Abhijith.
Sugathan’s family, meanwhile, denied all the allegations and accused the police of using excessive force.