Kozhikode: The SC/ST Commission rejected the police report on the death of Viswanathan, a tribal youth who was found hanging after being accused of theft. The commission directed the police to file a case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Prevention of Atrocities Act in connection with Viswanathan’s death. The National Scheduled Tribe Commission has also sought a report on the death.
Medical College AC K Sudarshan, who is also an investigating officer, submitted a report on the death of Viswanathan before the SCST Commission. The Commission took the stand that it was not correct to file a case of unnatural death only in Viswanathan’s suicide. According to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Prohibition of Harassment, a preliminary report should be submitted within four days after taking a case and conducting an investigation. SCST Commission BS Maoji said that people are being tortured for non-existent crimes and the attitude towards black people should change.
The National Scheduled Tribe Commission has also sought a report from the DGP, District Collector and City Police Commissioner. The report should be submitted within three days. BJP workers marched to the Kozhikode Medical College Police Station demanding the arrest of those responsible for Viswanathan’s death.