In Warangal, Telangana, Sub-Inspector Sriramula Srinivas, who hailed from Narakkapet village, tragically passed away at a private hospital in Hyderabad after attempting suicide a week prior. Srinivas, who had been transferred to Aswaraopet from Manugur last year, allegedly took his life following persistent harassment from his superiors based on his caste.
The incident prompted a case to be filed by Mahabubabad police under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act against Circle Inspector K Jithender Reddy and several constables, after Srinivas' wife, Krishnaveni, lodged a complaint.
Following Srinivas' death, his paternal aunt Rajamma succumbed to cardiac arrest in Nachinapalle village upon hearing the news. In response, villagers and relatives protested in Narakkapet, initially obstructing the ambulance carrying Srinivas' body. Police intervention was required to facilitate the funeral rites, eventually conducted by his elder son.
The circumstances leading to Srinivas' suicide were outlined in a statement he made to the magistrate on Saturday night, detailing the harassment inflicted by Circle Inspector Jithender Reddy and the constables.
Demanding justice, former MLA and BRS leader Peddi Sudarshan Reddy visited Rajamma's residence to offer condolences and called for a judicial inquiry into Srinivas' death. He also urged for disciplinary actions against the responsible officers and demanded a compensation of Rs 1 crore for Srinivas' family.
The incident has sparked significant local outcry and calls for accountability, emphasizing broader issues of caste-based discrimination within the police force.