Activists in Kerala extend support to Prasad and condemn ‘moral policing’

The invocation of Section 119 (a) of the Kerala Police Act 2011 against 24-year-old film editor Prasad, who was found talking to his girlfriend in a public park, has evoked widespread condemnation here.

The Section aims at ensuring a safe environment for women and can be invoked against those who make obscene gestures and engage in acts outraging the dignity of women.

The punishment includes imprisonment up to three years and a fine of Rs.10,000.

Three days ago, a Facebook post by Mr. Prasad from Mannarkkad, detailing the suffering he experienced at the hands of the district police, went viral. Many civil society movements and individuals have extended support to him in fighting the misuse of power by the police.

“Some officials with a criminal bent of mind are causing disrepute to the entire police force,” said P.S. Panicker of Janajagratha, a human rights organisation. “What is the message the police are trying to convey to society by slapping such a case on the youth,” asked rights activist Arumughan Pathichira.

On February 24, Prasad and his friend were sitting in the Vadika gardens adjacent to the Palakkad Fort. A couple of policemen swooped on them. They wanted to know their relationship and what they were doing there. While the girl was allowed to go home, Mr. Prasad was forcibly taken to the nearest police station. He was allowed to leave after a few hours.

On March 23, Mr. Prasad received a summons directing him to appear before the District Magistrate in the second week of April. The summons also said he had been booked under Section 119 (a) of the Kerala Police Act 2011.