SHRC orders probe into youth’s death after falling into a roadside pit in Idukki

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed the Idukki District Collector to probe the death of a 27-year-old man who died after his two-wheeler fell into a roadside pit at Muthalakkodam, near Thodupuzha.

Taking suo motu case on the incident based on media reports, SHRC chairperson Alexander Thomas ordered the Collector to appoint an official of Superintendent of Police (SP) rank from outside the district to lead the investigation. The commission further directed the South Zone Inspector General (IG) to recommend a suitable officer for the task and provide necessary police personnel to assist.

The probe will determine whether the Public Works department (PWD) was responsible for failing to cover the pit and if there were any lapses on the part of specific officials. Additionally, the investigator must verify if the victim, identified as Joys Benny, held valid insurance for his vehicle. The final report must also detail any steps taken to provide compensation to the victim’s family.

Separate report

Furthermore, the commission has requested the PWD vigilance wing to submit its investigation report. The PWD (Roads) chief engineer is required to file a separate report within six weeks, incorporating the findings of the vigilance wing. The investigating officer, along with representatives of the chief engineer and the District Collector, must appear before the commission during its sitting in Thodupuzha.

The fatal accident occurred at approximately 10.45 p.m. on February 15. Benny, a resident of Muthalakkodam, was travelling toward Thodupuzha when he reportedly lost control of his scooter near a construction site. He plunged into a deep pit adjacent to a culvert and sustained fatal injuries.