Pathanamthitta (Kerala) | CPI(M) MLA K U Jenish Kumar on Friday sought a comprehensive investigation into the disappearance of tribal chieftain Mohandas.
The tribal chieftain has been missing from Kokkathode near Konni since June 26.
Speaking to reporters after visiting Mohandas' family, the Konni MLA said he would submit a complaint to the state Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala seeking an in-depth probe into the circumstances leading to the tribal leader's disappearance and urged authorities to intensify search operations using advanced technology, including drones.
Jenish said the family had levelled serious allegations against the police and claimed that Mohandas, accompanied by a panchayat ward member, had visited the Konni police station in connection with a case, where he was allegedly treated disrespectfully by officials.
According to the MLA, the family also alleged that Mohandas had paid a bribe to police officials to settle a case arising from a dispute over work received under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
He said the family claimed that Mohandas (70) recently received a court notice in connection with the case, after which he entered the forest and has not been seen since.
"When Mohandas and the ward member reached the police station, the Circle Inspector questioned them. Those who accompanied Mohandas alleged that the police did not behave properly. The next day, they were called again to the station, where a bribe was allegedly demanded and accepted before they were told that the matter had been settled," Jenish said.
Describing the allegations as serious, the MLA said a detailed investigation was necessary.
"I will submit a complaint to the Home Minister. There should be an in-depth investigation into the matter," he said.
Meanwhile, police, with the assistance of the Forest Department, are continuing the search for Mohandas.
