Justice Denied, A Life Lost

Sometimes, an individual’s death becomes more than a personal tragedy. It becomes a question that society must confront. The death of Pradeep Poojary, a young man from Perdoor in Udupi district, while undergoing hospital treatment has raised disturbing questions about the circumstances leading to his final moments, an alleged assault and the responsibility of institutions entrusted with protecting citizens.

Reports suggest that Pradeep had been in a relationship with a woman for nearly eight years, which eventually turned contentious. While complaints had reportedly been filed against him in connection with the relationship, another disturbing episode emerged involving an alleged assault on October 27. According to allegations, members of the woman’s family and others physically attacked him. He subsequently sought treatment at Ajjarkad District Hospital on October 28.

More troubling are allegations that when Pradeep approached Hiriyadka Police Station to report the assault, his complaint was not properly received. On October 30, he died while undergoing treatment. Following a complaint by his brother, a case of abetment to suicide was registered against more than ten individuals. The allegations and circumstances surrounding his death demand a thorough and impartial investigation.

No Licence

Relationships can break down, disagreements can turn bitter, and allegations of harassment or misconduct must be taken seriously. Every individual has the right to seek legal recourse. But no allegation, however serious, gives anyone the authority to take the law into their own hands.

If the allegations of an assault on Pradeep are established, those responsible must face the consequences. Guilt cannot be determined by a gathering of individuals, nor can physical violence substitute for judicial proceedings. The rule of law demands that allegations be examined through due process, not settled through intimidation, retaliation or mob justice.

Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of this case is the allegation that Hiriyadka Police Station refused to receive Pradeep’s complaint. A police station is a public institution, not an establishment where grievances are entertained at someone’s convenience. It has a duty to protect citizens and respond to complaints.

An injured individual seeking protection deserves to be heard and his complaint handled in accordance with the law. Previous allegations against someone cannot justify denying him the right to report a fresh offence.

Was Pradeep’s complaint actually refused? If so, why? Were the police acting under external influence? Did procedural negligence or deliberate indifference contribute to his helplessness? These are not merely emotional questions. They demand answers through an examination of station records, available evidence and witness statements.

If any police personnel are found guilty of dereliction of duty, they must face appropriate legal and departmental action. A uniform is not merely a symbol of authority; it represents an obligation to protect every citizen without discrimination.

Justice Beyond Gender

This tragedy must not be reduced to a confrontation between men and women. Such polarisation distracts from the larger principle of equal protection under the law. A woman alleging harassment deserves to be heard and protected. Equally, a man alleging assault deserves the same consideration. Justice loses its meaning when it becomes selective.

The investigation must establish the circumstances of the alleged assault, the handling of Pradeep’s complaint, the conduct of those involved and any possible institutional negligence. The circumstances surrounding his death and the hospital’s responsibility for patient safety must also be examined. Accountability must emerge from evidence and due process, not public speculation.

Pradeep cannot return. No investigation can undo his family’s loss. But his death must not become another incident that briefly attracts public attention before disappearing into administrative files and forgotten promises.

Those responsible must be brought to justice if the allegations are established. Any police official found guilty of misconduct must be held accountable. Above all, the family deserves transparency, fairness and answers.

A citizen should never have to wonder whether approaching the police for justice will leave him more helpless than before. When the institutions meant to protect the vulnerable become inaccessible to them, the failure is not merely administrative. It is a failure of the very promise of justice.

(The writer is a Bengaluru-based author and scholar. Views personal.)