Kerala Court Condemns Police for Barber’s Arrest Over 10 ML Liquor
A Kerala court’s sharp rebuke of the police for arresting a barber over possession of 10 ml liquor has sparked outrage. The magistrate likened the incident to something “only in a banana republic,” reigniting debates on police misuse of power.
The Arrest: What Happened?
A 35-year-old barber from Kollam was arrested under the Kerala Abkari Act after police allegedly found 10 ml of liquor in his shop—equivalent to two teaspoons. The barber claimed he used it as a disinfectant for tools. Despite the negligible quantity, he was jailed overnight before securing bail. Locals condemned the arrest as excessive.
Court’s Strong Criticism
The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Kollam slammed the police, stating such actions belong in a “banana republic, not a civilized society.” The court questioned the arrest’s rationale, calling it a “waste of judicial time” and ordered a police explanation.
Public and Legal Backlash
Legal experts and activists criticized the arrest as disproportionate. Advocate Sreekumar Nair said, “The Abkari Act targets large-scale liquor trade, not individuals with trivial amounts.” Social media erupted with memes mocking the police, with users calling the action absurd.
Police Defense & Systemic Issues
The Kollam police defended the arrest as part of an anti-liquor drive, but critics called it harassment. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala demanded police focus on serious crimes instead of “terrorizing the poor.”
The case highlights broader concerns:
– Misuse of strict laws against vulnerable individuals
– Overburdened courts due to frivolous cases
– Need for policing reforms and decriminalizing minor offenses
What’s Next?
The court’s reprimand may prompt internal police scrutiny. Meanwhile, the barber’s case has become a symbol of systemic overreach, raising questions about fair law enforcement in Kerala.
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