Bareilly Police Sub-Inspector Suspended Following Bribery Scandal and Self-Immolation Attempt
A police sub-inspector in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, was suspended on Thursday after a departmental inquiry found him guilty of demanding a bribe of Rs 5,000 to release a seized motorcycle. This incident allegedly drove a delivery agent working for a quick commerce platform to attempt self-immolation inside the Baradari police station, resulting in critical injuries.
Delivery Agent's Desperate Act Inside Police Station
Akshay Kashyap, a 32-year-old delivery agent, allegedly set himself on fire inside the Baradari police station around 10:30 PM on Wednesday. This drastic action came after he repeatedly failed to secure the release of his motorcycle, which had been seized by the police. Kashyap sustained severe burn injuries to his abdomen, back, face, and hands and was immediately rushed to the district hospital, where his condition remains serious as of the latest reports.
Background of the Incident and Police Seizure
Kashyap, a resident of Fatehganj Paschimi Nagar Panchayat who lives in rented accommodation near Kotwali in Bareilly, recounted the events leading up to the tragedy. Speaking from his hospital bed, he explained that on Monday evening, he had gone to Gangapur for a delivery and parked his motorcycle outside a shop, inadvertently leaving the key in the ignition. During this time, a man identified as Vikas Sagar allegedly attempted to steal the bike and collided with another individual named Akash, causing injuries.
Police from the Baradari station subsequently seized the motorcycle in connection with the accident. Kashyap stated that an accident case was initially registered against him but was later withdrawn. "I visited the police station several times over the past two days, but my bike was not released. Without it, I cannot work," he lamented, highlighting the financial desperation that led to his extreme action.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
In response to the incident, a senior police officer, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the sub-inspector involved has been suspended by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anurag Arya. An inter-departmental inquiry has been initiated to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure accountability within the force. This swift action underscores the seriousness with which the police department is treating allegations of corruption and misconduct, particularly in cases that result in such severe consequences for civilians.
The suspension of the sub-inspector serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating bribery and ensuring ethical conduct among law enforcement officials. The case has drawn significant attention to the pressures faced by delivery agents and other gig economy workers, whose livelihoods often depend on access to their vehicles. As the inquiry progresses, authorities are expected to review protocols for handling seized property and addressing citizen grievances to prevent similar incidents in the future.
