Kerala: Fresh probe ordered into death of prosecutor Aneeshya amid bias allegations
The Director General of Prosecution (DGP) in Kerala has ordered a fresh departmental inquiry into the death of S. Aneeshya, a former Assistant Public Prosecutor at the Paravur Munsiff Magistrate Court in Kollam. The order follows a petition by her parents alleging bias and serious lapses in the initial investigation.
DGP T. Asaf Ali has formally tasked the Director of Prosecution with examining whether any official lapses or departmental failures contributed to her death. The investigating authority has been directed to submit a comprehensive report at the earliest.
Aneeshya died on January 21, 2024, reportedly by suicide. She left behind a handwritten note and audio messages in which she allegedly described severe workplace harassment and mental torture from her colleagues and superiors.
Her parents, Prasanna P.M. and Satyadevan, in their petition highlighted several flaws in the first departmental inquiry. They pointed out that the inquiry officer, identified as Sheeba, held the exact same rank and cadre as one of the accused officials. This, they argued, created a conflict of interest and resulted in an investigation designed to shield colleagues rather than uncover the truth.
The petition also said the initial inquiry failed to examine crucial primary evidence, including Aneeshya's handwritten note and recorded voice messages, despite clear instructions to consider all available materials. The investigating officer allegedly refrained from collecting statements even from official sources who had proactively offered relevant testimony.
The parents asserted that the “flawed” report magnified facts favourable to the accused while disregarding mounting evidence of workplace torture. They said this “biased” departmental report enabled the accused persons to secure bail in court, thereby denying justice to their daughter.
The fresh inquiry is expected to look into these complaints and ascertain accountability within the department. It will also determine whether the initial probe was conducted fairly and in accordance with procedures.
(If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, help is available. Kerala's Disha suicide prevention helpline can be reached at 1056 or 0471-2552056.)
