SHRC orders probe into alleged drug trafficking around Kaloor stadium

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered a probe into the allegation that the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium at Kaloor and its premises have turned into a hub of drug traffickers and anti-social elements.

Alexander Thomas, Chairperson, SHRC, on Wednesday (January 28, 2026) ordered the District Police Chief (Kochi City) and the Joint Excise Commissioner to conduct a detailed investigation into the complaint in cooperation with the secretaries of the Kochi Corporation and the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA). The Commission ordered the probe in a case registered by it suo motu based on media reports.

The Commission ordered that both the city police and the excise should strengthen patrol in the area. A police team led by an officer of the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) should check if street lights in and around the stadium and those along Stadium Link Road and metro pillars in the area are functional and instruct the authorities concerned to fix the lights found faulty.

The investigating officers have been asked to submit separate reports to the Commission within a month. The GCDA has been instructed to make it clear in its report if it has been entrusted with maintaining the stadium.

An ACP representing the District Police Chief and senior officials on behalf of the Joint Excise Commissioner and secretaries of the Corporation and the GCDA have been instructed to appear before the Commission at a sitting scheduled for March 3 at 10 a.m. at the PWD Rest House, Pathadippalam.