Kerala Assembly Walkout Over Police Suicides

CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Opposition Clash

In Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, the opposition walked out of the Assembly after the Speaker denied an adjournment motion to discuss the rising suicides among police officers due to excessive workload. Congress MLA PC Vishnunadh moved the resolution, highlighting the issue and citing 88 suicides in the last five years, including the recent case of Madan Kumar.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan responded by listing government initiatives to reduce police stress, such as HATS (Help and Assistance to Tackle Stress) and the Domestic Conflict Resolution Centre (DCRC). He acknowledged that family, financial, and health problems contribute to suicides, but stressed that official life issues also play a role.

Vijayan mentioned that eight-hour duty shifts have been implemented in 52 major stations and efforts are ongoing to expand this. He also noted that modern interventions are being used to alleviate workplace stress.

Opposition leader VD Satheesan accused the government of giving political patronage to criminals and criticized the lack of effective action, despite a 2023 circular from the Kerala DGP to provide leave and counseling for police officers.

After the CM’s explanation, the Assembly Speaker denied the adjournment motion, prompting the opposition to stage a walkout.