The State government on Sunday (Novemebr 30, 2025) ordered the immediate suspension of Umesh A., Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP), Vadakara, Kozhikode Rural, following allegations of sexual exploitation, abuse of authority, and serious misconduct that surfaced during the investigation into the recent death of a police officer.
The action by the Home department comes on the basis of a report from the State Police Chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar detailing the findings related to the alleged suicide of Binu Thomas, Station House Officer (SHO) of the Cherpulassery police station. He was found dead at the Cherpulassery police quarters on November 15.
During the inquest, the police had recovered a 32-page suicide note, along with mobile phones and other materials that belonged to the deceased officer. The note reportedly contained detailed allegations that date back to 2014, when Thomas was serving as the Sub Inspector at the Wadakkancherry police station and Mr. Umesh was the Circle Inspector there.
According to the note, a woman taken into custody on April 24, 2014 on charges of immoral trafficking was released without a case being registered. The note alleges that both the officers then visited her residence, intimidated and sexually exploited her, and collected bribes from persons involved in the suspected trafficking activity. It also states that the deceased officer later maintained an illicit relationship with the woman.
Statement recorded
As part of the inquiry led by the DySP of the C-Branch, Palakkad, the woman’s statement was recorded. Her deposition corroborated the claims in the note, and confirmed that both the officers had exploited her position and vulnerability during the incident.
After examining the report, the Home department concluded that there was prima facie evidence of grave misconduct, indiscipline, abuse of power, and immoral and illegal acts on the part of Mr. Umesh.
In its order, the department stated that the alleged acts committed by him had “tarnished the image of the entire police force,” and thus necessitated urgent disciplinary action.
The government has ordered his immediate suspension pending disciplinary proceedings. He will be eligible for subsistence allowance as per service rules.
Moreover, an oral inquiry has been initiated against the suspended official, and the State Police Chief directed to submit a panel of competent officers to be considered for appointment as the inquiry officer.
Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline of Maithri – 0484-2540530, Thanal Suicide Prevention Centre – 0495-2760000 and Direction Interventions System for Health Awareness (DISHA) – 1056.
Published – November 30, 2025 04:36 pm IST
