Bengaluru: In a serious incident highlighting concerns over police conduct, three personnel attached to Varthur Police Station were suspended on Wednesday following allegations of assault against a domestic worker inside the station premises. The suspended officers have been identified as Sanjay Rathod, Santosh Kudari, and Archana. The action comes after an inquiry into the incident, ordered by senior officials, confirmed the alleged misconduct.

The suspension followed the submission of an inquiry report by Priyadarshini, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Marathahalli, on Tuesday. A senior police officer stated that the inquiry established prima facie evidence of the officers’ involvement in physically assaulting the domestic worker.

Incident Details

The events leading to the suspension began on October 30, when a woman lodged a complaint at Varthur Police Station against her domestic help, Sundari Bibi, a 34-year-old woman from West Bengal. The complaint alleged that Bibi had stolen a diamond ring from the complainant’s residence. Following this, a Non-Cognizable Report (NCR) was registered, and the police summoned Bibi to the station along with her husband for questioning.

According to police sources, during the visit to the station, Bibi and her husband were allegedly detained on the first floor of the station, where the three accused personnel allegedly assaulted her. The domestic worker was reportedly subjected to physical abuse during the questioning process. The assault came to light only after the intervention of a social activist, who demanded an explanation from the police authorities, resulting in her immediate release.

Subsequently, Bibi was taken to Bowring Hospital, where the doctors registered a Medico-Legal Case (MLC), documenting the injuries sustained during the alleged assault. The MLC played a critical role in corroborating the allegations against the police personnel, forming a significant part of the inquiry conducted by the ACP’s office.

Official Response

A senior police officer involved in the case stated, “The inquiry report clearly indicated the misconduct of the officers in handling the domestic worker. Given the severity of the allegations, the department has taken immediate action by suspending the three personnel pending further investigation. We take such incidents very seriously, as they violate both legal provisions and ethical responsibilities of police officers.”

The suspension order emphasizes that police personnel are expected to maintain the highest standards of conduct, particularly when dealing with vulnerable individuals, and that any deviation from this standard will be met with strict disciplinary action.

Context and Public Reaction

The incident has sparked concerns among residents and human rights activists regarding the treatment of domestic workers and the accountability of law enforcement officials. Activists have repeatedly highlighted instances where vulnerable individuals, particularly migrant domestic workers, face harassment or abuse at the hands of authorities, emphasizing the need for procedural safeguards and strict oversight.

Social activist groups have praised the intervention that ensured Bibi’s release and the subsequent suspension of the officers. They have called for a thorough investigation to hold all responsible parties accountable and to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In a statement, one activist said, “Domestic workers are among the most vulnerable groups in society. Any abuse against them, especially in the hands of law enforcement, is unacceptable. We hope the suspension serves as a deterrent, and a fair investigation follows to ensure justice for Sundari Bibi.”

Next Steps

The police department has stated that an internal investigation will continue to determine the full extent of the incident, including any possible collusion or negligence by other personnel present at the station during the time of the alleged assault. Depending on the outcome, further disciplinary action, including potential criminal proceedings, may be initiated against those found guilty.

Meanwhile, Sundari Bibi has received medical attention, and her legal representatives are reportedly exploring options to ensure that she receives justice under applicable laws. The case has also drawn attention to the broader need for sensitization of police personnel regarding the rights and protection of domestic workers and other marginalized individuals who interact with law enforcement.

Summary of Key Points:

• Location: Varthur Police Station, Bengaluru.
• Personnel Suspended: Sanjay Rathod, Santosh Kudari, and Archana.
• Victim: Sundari Bibi, 34-year-old domestic help from West Bengal.
• Incident Date: October 30, 2025.
• Allegation: Assault inside police station over theft complaint.
• Medical Action: Medico-Legal Case registered at Bowring Hospital.
• Action Taken: Suspension pending further investigation.
• Next Steps: Continued internal inquiry, potential criminal and departmental proceedings.

The suspension of the three police personnel underscores the importance of accountability and adherence to lawful conduct by law enforcement officials. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to investigating the incident thoroughly, ensuring justice for the victim, and preventing any recurrence of such abuse within police stations.

This case also highlights the continued vulnerability of domestic workers and the pressing need for greater safeguards and legal protections for this segment of society, particularly when allegations of theft or misconduct arise. The focus on swift action and transparent investigation is likely to set a precedent for similar incidents in the future, reinforcing the principle that police accountability is paramount, regardless of the status or background of the individuals involved.