Congress leaders in Uttarakhand have launched a sharp attack on the state government's handling of a tragic farmer suicide case. They are demanding immediate action against senior police officials, not just junior staff.
Congress Leaders Press for Higher Accountability
State Congress chief Ganesh Godiyal and opposition leader Yashpal Arya held a press conference in Rudrapur on Tuesday. They raised serious questions about the investigation into Sukhwant Singh's death.
The farmer, in a video before his death, specifically accused officials at the SSP office of neglect and misbehavior. Yet, action so far has focused only on lower-ranking police personnel.
"Accountability Must Reach the Top"
"When allegations point directly at the SSP, accountability must be fixed at that level too," Godiyal stated firmly. He demanded the immediate suspension of SSP Manikant Mishra.
Yashpal Arya echoed this demand, highlighting a conflict of interest. "An officer named by the farmer cannot possibly be investigated by his own subordinates," Arya argued. He called for Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to order a high-level independent inquiry.
"But first, the SSP must be suspended," Arya insisted.
Congress Announces Protest Plan
To pressure the administration, Congress announced an indefinite gherao (siege) of the police headquarters in Dehradun. This protest will begin on January 15.
Questions Over Police Conduct and Sudden Action
Arya also criticized the police department's overall response. He noted that nearly twenty-five percent of the allegedly cheated amount has now been recovered.
"For four long months, the farmer made repeated pleas. The police showed little sensitivity, which pushed him into deep mental distress," Arya said. "Now, suddenly, the same department is trying to deliver instant justice. This raises serious doubts."
Public Anger Grows, Demands Broader Action
Public anger in Rudrapur continues to simmer. While the ITI police station in-charge and a sub-inspector have been suspended, and staff from the Paiga outpost attached to police lines, many residents find these steps inadequate.
They argue that accountability must reach the senior officers named by Sukhwant Singh.
"Action against junior staff alone will not restore public confidence in the system," said Sushil Khera, a local resident. His sentiment reflects a broader demand for transparent and comprehensive justice.
The case has become a flashpoint, testing the administration's commitment to police reform and farmer welfare in Uttarakhand.
