Thiruvananthapuram, 23 May (H.S.):A police officer in Kerala has been placed under suspension after allegedly posting controversial remarks against Local Self-Government Minister K.M. Shaji on social media, triggering disciplinary action from the department.

The suspended officer has been identified as Sujith, a Civil Police Officer (CPO) attached to Vellarikundu Police Station in Kasaragod district. Action was initiated after a message he shared on a WhatsApp group created controversy and drew the attention of senior police officials.

According to official sources, the controversial message was posted in a WhatsApp group named Police Friends, which consists of police personnel, including Deputy Superintendents of Police (DYSPs) and other officers from the district. In the message, Sujith allegedly described Minister K.M. Shaji as a “communalist,” a remark that quickly sparked criticism and concern within the police department.

Reports indicate that the post had initially been shared on social media platforms before Sujith later circulated the same content in the WhatsApp group. The message subsequently spread among police circles and became a subject of discussion, leading to questions over the conduct expected from serving police personnel.

Senior officials viewed the matter seriously, particularly because members of the police force are expected to maintain political neutrality and avoid making statements or engaging in activities that could be interpreted as partisan or controversial in nature.

Following an internal review of the issue, authorities decided to suspend Sujith pending further proceedings. The disciplinary action comes amid renewed emphasis on maintaining professional conduct and ensuring that police personnel adhere strictly to service rules governing public communication and social media usage.

Further departmental inquiries into the incident are expected to continue.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman