High Court Criticises Govt, Police Over Lapses in Arrest of Dr Ram

Kochi: The Kerala High Court has once again criticised the police over alleged lapses in the arrest of Dr Ram, an accused in the suicide case of Nithin Raj, a student of Anjarakandy Dental College. The court questioned why the DySP responsible for the lapse had not been suspended and directed the government to take appropriate action.

The court observed that the investigation should be conducted without leaving any opportunity for the accused to escape. It also noted that the country’s judicial system had not ceased to function, despite the alleged irregularities in the handling of the case.

The controversy intensified after allegations that the police had taken steps that could benefit the accused. Following the criticism, the Home Minister announced a new investigation team. The existing team was replaced, with SP Mohanachandran appointed to lead the probe.

The accused was allegedly taken into custody again in violation of an order issued by the Principal District Sessions Court, which also functions as the Special Court for SC/ST cases. After the court raised concerns over the legality of the arrest, the police were reportedly forced to release the accused along with his relatives.

The High Court had prima facie found violations of Supreme Court guidelines in the case. The latest observations have further intensified scrutiny of the police investigation and the actions of officers involved in the arrest.