MP claims CRPF assaulted him during routine check.

Keralam Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas has alleged that he was assaulted by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel during a routine check in a local station. Brittas, a long‑serving representative from Kerala, claimed that despite informing the officers of his parliamentary status, the men continued to attack him, pinning him to a chair and attempting to choke him. The MP said the incident exemplified the vulnerability that elected officials face in the country, even when performing official duties..

According to Brittas’ statement, the confrontation began when a group of CRPF officers entered the premises of a local community centre to conduct a routine security sweep. Brittas, who was present to address a crowd, was approached by the officers, who demanded identification. He provided his credentials, but the officers reportedly disregarded the proof and proceeded to assault him physically..

Brittas recounted that the officers first struck him on the chest, then forced him into a chair. Once seated, they allegedly placed a hand over his throat, attempting to restrict his breathing. The MP maintained that the assault was unprovoked and that there was no prior warning or reason for the officers to target him..

He added that the incident left him with visible bruises and a sense of violation. In addition to the assault on Brittas, the MP reported injuries among students and staff who were present at the community centre. Several members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), a student wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), were reportedly caught up in the scuffle..

The SFI activists, who were participating in a peaceful protest, suffered cuts and bruises, and one student was hospitalised with a fractured collarbone. The CRPF has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. In the absence of a response, the Kerala State Assembly has called for a formal inquiry into the actions of the security personnel..

The Assembly’s Public Affairs Committee will convene a hearing later this week, during which witnesses and witnesses will be called to testify on the alleged assault. The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of police and paramilitary conduct in civilian settings. Analysts note that while the CRPF is tasked with maintaining internal security, there have been sporadic reports of excessive force being used against civilians and public officials..

The current case is likely to add to the scrutiny of the force’s training protocols and accountability mechanisms. Opposition leaders in Kerala have condemned the alleged assault. “No elected representative should ever be subject to violence from the state’s own security forces,” said a senior opposition MLA..

He called for a swift investigation and for measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur. The statement was echoed by several civil society organisations, which demanded that the CRPF be held to the highest standards of conduct. Brittas’ office has asked the Ministry of Home Affairs to intervene and ensure that a proper investigation is conducted..

The MP also urged the government to review the procedures used by CRPF units during public events, suggesting that clear guidelines be issued to prevent the misuse of force. He emphasised that MPs must be able to perform their duties without fear of intimidation. The SFI has released a statement expressing solidarity with the injured activists..

The organisation said that the incident highlighted the need for better coordination between security forces and student groups. “We will continue to advocate for the safety of all students and public officials,” the statement read. The SFI also called for a review of the protocols governing the presence of paramilitary units at public gatherings..

While the investigation proceeds, the incident has already sparked social media debate. Many citizens have expressed outrage at the alleged violence, with several online petitions demanding accountability from the CRPF. Critics argue that the incident reflects a broader pattern of state overreach and the erosion of civil liberties..

Proponents of stricter security measures, however, contend that the presence of armed forces at public events is essential for maintaining order. As the inquiry unfolds, observers will be watching closely how the CRPF responds to the accusations. If the force is found to have breached protocol, it could face reforms in training, oversight, and disciplinary procedures..

The outcome of the investigation will also set a precedent for how elected officials and activists are protected in the future, potentially reshaping the relationship between law enforcement and the democratic process..