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Virajpet: A Kerala-based journalist, Rejaz M. Sheeba Sydeek, has alleged that the Kodagu Police unlawfully detained him while he was reporting on tribal issues in the district. However, the Kodagu Police have denied the claims, asserting that he was only questioned as part of standard procedures.
Rejaz, who identifies himself as a journalist, took to social media on Wednesday evening to accuse the Virajpet Police of detaining him without following proper legal protocols. His allegations were later reported by the English news website, Vartha Bharati. According to the report, Rejaz claimed that he had traveled to Virajpet to cover issues affecting the tribal community in the region, specifically a protest organized by the Adivasi Sangarsha Samiti Morcha.
According to Rejaz’s account on social media, he was traveling by bus with tribal members to their settlement when three police officers in a private vehicle intercepted the bus in a remote area. He alleged that the officers asked him to accompany them without presenting a warrant. He further stated that he was taken to the Virajpet Police Station and subjected to questioning.
Police Deny Detainment Allegations
Speaking to The Kodagu Express on Friday, Kodagu Superintendent of Police (SP) K. Ramarajan refuted the claims made by Rejaz on social media. “The allegation that he was detained is completely false. He was not detained but was only questioned. He is more of an extremist than a journalist,” Ramarajan said.
Providing context, SP Ramarajan mentioned a past incident in the district involving an unnatural death that had sparked protests. He said Rejaz had identified himself as a journalist while reporting on the protests. “We provided full freedom for the protests because everyone has the right to express their views. However, Rejaz’s activities raised questions, and we sought clarification about his presence and intent in the district,” Ramarajan added.
Rejaz was reportedly in Virajpet to cover a protest organized by the Adivasi Sangarsha Samiti Morcha. The protest, held on Wednesday in front of the Taluk Office in Virajpet, demanded justice and support for the family of a tribal man who died a few months back. The committee called for a compensation of ₹20 lakh for the family and sought government employment for his widow.
Regarding the protest, Virajpet Taluk Tahsildar H.N. Ramachandra, speaking to The Kodagu Express, said, 'The protest has now concluded, and the Social Welfare Department is looking into the matter. The department will take necessary action.”
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