Sun Apr 06 13:45:19 UTC 2025: ## Two Kerala Police Officers Suspended Following Tribal Youth’s Death in Custody
**Kozhikode, Kerala – April 6, 2025** – Two police officers have been suspended in connection with the death of an 18-year-old tribal youth, Gokul, who was found dead in a police station washroom in Kalpetta, Wayanad district. Assistant Sub-Inspector Deepa and Civil Police Officer Sreejith were suspended following a preliminary inquiry by Wayanad District Police Chief Taposh Basumatari.
Gokul, who was in custody related to the disappearance of a minor girl, was found dead on April 1st. While the post-mortem report found no evidence of custodial torture, allegations of negligence in ensuring his safety sparked protests and prompted a Crime Branch investigation ordered by the Kerala State government. The Kerala State Human Rights Commission also launched an inquiry.
The officers were reportedly held accountable for “lack of alertness” and failure to properly supervise Gokul, who was apprehended along with the minor girl in Kozhikode on March 31st. The girl was sent to a shelter, while Gokul remained at the station due to the late hour. Police sources suggest the incident stemmed from inter-tribal issues, with the pair having fled their settlement due to their relationship being opposed by their respective communities.
The suspensions come as a result of the preliminary inquiry that found the officers answerable for negligence in their duties. The ongoing investigations are expected to shed further light on the circumstances surrounding Gokul’s death.
First Piper 