Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 19 December 2024
Little Andaman is witnessing a complete shutdown of all shops today as locals and family members of a deceased tea shop owner intensified their agitation, pressing for the filing of an FIR against police officials allegedly responsible for provoking his suicide. The tragic incident, which occurred on December 15, 2024, has sent shockwaves through the region, sparking debates on police accountability.
The victim, reportedly detained under the pretext of drunk driving, was taken to the police station by officers who allegedly acted without proper cause. Community members claim the man was merely standing next to his bike, which had no fuel, when police officers—not in uniform—arrived, refuelled the bike, and took him to the station. He was released after several hours without being charged or issued a challan.
According to the victim’s family, he never returned home after his release and tragically took his own life shortly thereafter. The family and community allege that the police’s actions during his detention led to his suicide. The brother of the deceased has demanded the suspension of the officers involved, the lodging of an FIR against them, and compensation for the three young children left behind by the deceased.
While sources confirm that three police personnel have been suspended, the family remains firm in their demand for the filing of an FIR and compensatory appointment for the children. The body of the deceased remains uncremated, as the family has refused cremation until their demands are met.
Protests have escalated over the past few days. On December 18, the deceased’s brother alleged that the post-mortem was conducted without the family’s consent, raising further questions about police transparency. Despite reassurances from SDPO Mr. Firoz Alam that a fair investigation would be conducted and access to police station CCTV footage would be granted, the family has reiterated its stance on non-negotiable demands.
Today’s bandh in Little Andaman is a direct response to the lack of satisfactory action from authorities. The protest has received widespread support from the community, with shops and markets completely closed as locals rally behind the grieving family.
Nicobar Times spoke to the deceased’s brother, who confirmed that the agitation would continue until all demands are met.