Probe ordered in Andhra cops' public caning of accused

Andhra Pradesh Police chief Monday ordered a probe in some incidents in Anantapur district where policemen allegedly beat up accused persons publicly.

Director General of Police B. Prasada Rao told national media Monday that he has asked the deputy inspector general (DIG) of state police to submit a report.

A few days after a police officer publicly thrashed some accused of molestatio0n and other crimes in Anantapur town, a police team Sunday beat up four accused in a murder case in Guntakal town of Anantapur district.

A team of policemen led by a deputy superintendent of police caned Sekhar, accused of killing his father-in-law, and three others at a local bus station. An officer justified the action, saying people were angry over the murder.

The police chief said he would look into the matter and disciplinary action would be taken if the policemen were found guilty.

"Taking law into their hands by any policeman is unwarranted. This brazen display of brutality is not warranted," the DGP said, adding that sometimes people expect quick reaction from police to local issues like eve teasing.

The top police officer said cultural ethos might increase public expectations about police functioning. "But in a democratic setup, we are bound by law and we have to work within the framework of law."

"I believe with use of law and without resorting to brutality, we can achieve the same results," he said and promised to take action in cases of individual deviant behaviour by the officers.