Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 20 December 2024
Protests in Little Andaman, sparked by the tragic suicide of tea shop owner Pradeep Banerjee, were called off on 19th December 2024, following a written assurance from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). In the assurance, the SDM wrote:
“A fair and just enquiry in the matter has been initiated and will be brought to conclusion in a transparent manner. Livelihood opportunity to the children of deceased along with scholarships as per schemes of GoI and all possible help which can be extended by line departments to the family of deceased shall be extended.”
Following this assurance, the family agreed to proceed with the cremation of Mr. Banerjee’s body, which had been withheld as part of the protests.
The Incident:
On December 15, 2024, Mr. Pradeep Banerjee was reportedly detained under allegations of drunk driving. Community and the family claim he was merely standing beside his fuel-depleted bike when plainclothes officers arrived, refueled the vehicle, and took him to the police station. Banerjee was released several hours later without any charges or a challan.
According to his family, Banerjee did not return home after his release. Tragically, he was found to have taken his own life shortly thereafter.
The family and community allege that police misconduct during his detention directly contributed to his suicide. Banerjee’s brother demanded the suspension of the officers involved, the filing of an FIR against them, and compensation for the victim’s three young children.
Protests and Response:
The situation escalated as the family refused to cremate the body until their demands were met. Protesters rallied in support of the family, demanding justice and accountability. In response to the public outcry, three police personnel were suspended. However, the family remained firm in their call for an FIR and assurances for the children’s compensatory employment.
The SDM’s written assurance ultimately pacified the protesters, promising not only a thorough and transparent investigation but also tangible support for the bereaved family.