In a shocking incident in Kerala's Perumbavoor, three youths were assaulted and had their heads forcibly shaved by a group of six men on Wednesday. The victims were made to kneel down while a local barber was coerced into shaving their heads.
Details of the Assault
According to police reports, the incident took place in broad daylight near a hair salon. The six accused allegedly confronted the three youths and forced them to their knees. They then threatened a barber from the nearby salon to shave the victims' heads. The barber complied under duress, fearing for his own safety.
The victims, all in their early twenties, were reportedly targeted over a previous personal dispute. The accused accused them of misconduct and decided to humiliate them publicly. The entire episode was captured on mobile phones by onlookers and later circulated on social media, drawing widespread condemnation.
Police Response and Investigation
Police arrived at the scene after receiving a distress call. The victims were taken to a nearby hospital for medical examination and were later discharged. A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including assault, criminal intimidation, and unlawful assembly.
"We have identified all six accused based on CCTV footage and witness statements. They are absconding, and teams have been formed to arrest them," said a senior police officer. The barber has also been questioned and has identified the accused.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents. "This is barbaric. No one has the right to take the law into their own hands," said a local shopkeeper. Social media users have demanded strict action against the perpetrators, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the motive.
Kerala has seen a rise in such vigilante-style attacks in recent years, with several cases of moral policing reported. This incident has once again brought the issue to the forefront, with activists calling for stricter enforcement of laws against mob violence.
Legal Action
The police have registered a case under sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 341 (wrongful restraint), 342 (wrongful confinement), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the IPC. Additional charges may be added based on further investigation. The accused face up to two years in prison if convicted.
"We are committed to ensuring justice for the victims. The accused will be arrested soon," the officer added. The victims have been provided with security if needed.
