Two individuals were arrested on Monday following an incident at an NCC camp in Thrikkakara, near Kochi, where protesters stormed the camp and assaulted a senior officer after a food poisoning episode. The event occurred on the night of December 23, during a camp organized by the 21 Kerala Battalion of the NCC, involving 107 participants from schools and colleges in Kerala’s Ernakulam district.
The protest erupted after several students fell ill due to food poisoning at the camp, leading to concerns among parents and participants. Local leaders from various political parties, including the CPI(M) and BJP, joined the demonstration, adding momentum to the unrest.
Amid the protest, a group of agitators stormed into the camp and assaulted Lieutenant Colonel Karnail Singh, the administrative officer of the NCC unit. The Thrikkakara police have identified seven accused in the case. Two individuals, Nishad and Navas, both parents of affected students, were arrested and charged with manhandling the officer and obstructing him from performing his duties.
Other accused include Bhagyalakshmi, an SFI leader, and Pramod, a BJP councillor at Kalamassery municipality. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining individuals involved in the incident.
The 10-day NCC camp, which began on December 21, was suspended following the food poisoning incident. Inspector A. K. Sudheer of Thrikkakara police stated that the arrested individuals face serious charges for their actions against the Lieutenant Colonel.
This unfortunate episode highlights the need for stricter oversight to ensure the safety and security of such camps while maintaining the decorum and respect for officers in charge.
