Thu Jan 30 11:43:48 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Police Officer to Face Disciplinary Action After Man’s Suicide
**Chennai, January 30, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered the state government to pay ₹3 lakh in compensation to the mother of a man who died by suicide after a police officer refused to return his two-wheeler key during a vehicle check. The incident occurred in August 2018.
The SHRC found that Sub-Inspector P. Vijayarangan, then stationed at the J2 Adyar Traffic Police Station, “instigated” the man’s death. According to the commission’s investigation, SI Vijayarangan took the key from Radhakrishnan, who then threatened to jump into the Adyar river. The officer reportedly responded sarcastically, encouraging the act. Radhakrishnan subsequently jumped into the river and drowned.
The SHRC’s detailed order recommends disciplinary action against SI Vijayarangan for his role in the incident. The deceased’s mother, L. Revathi, had alleged that the police attempted to forcibly take the key and that her son’s threat to jump into the river was a response to their aggressive behaviour. While the respondent denied the charges, the SHRC investigation concluded that SI Vijayarangan’s actions were directly responsible for the man’s death.
The SHRC’s decision highlights the need for sensitivity and responsible conduct within law enforcement. (Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416, and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050).
First Piper 