The Kerala Police have taken swift disciplinary action against six personnel attached to the Kazhakkoottam Police Station after visuals emerged showing them consuming alcohol while on duty, raising serious concerns over discipline and public accountability within the force.
The incident, which occurred around 11 am on Monday, came to light after a member of the public discreetly recorded the officers drinking inside a car parked outside the police station. The footage was later forwarded to senior police officials and quickly went viral, prompting immediate scrutiny.
A preliminary inquiry described the incident as a grave violation of service conduct rules, noting that the officers were on official duty at the time. Despite claims by the personnel that they had stepped out to attend a wedding function, the inquiry concluded that alcohol consumption during duty hours and in a public space constituted gross misconduct.
Following the inquiry report submitted by the Kazhakkoottam Assistant Commissioner of Police, the City Police Commissioner ordered the suspension of all six officers. In addition to suspension, the personnel have been instructed to undergo mandatory good conduct training.
Senior police officials said the department would not tolerate behaviour that erodes public confidence in law enforcement. They emphasized that the swift action was necessary to send a strong message about discipline and accountability within the force.
A detailed departmental inquiry is expected to follow, and further action will be taken based on its findings.
