On January 12, 2025, Vandavasi resident Ashok Kumar mistakenly took a two-wheeler parked outside Kilkodungalore police station, assuming it belonged to his friend. Realizing his mistake two hours later, he returned the vehicle and informed the police. However, the police registered a complaint and arrested him.

Following his arrest, members of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), led by Metha Ramesh, staged a peaceful protest outside the Kilkodungalore police station demanding his release. The police allegedly used force against the protestors, detained them, and filed FIR 10/2025 under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. While six women protestors were granted bail, ten others were sent to judicial custody.

On January 14, 2025, Human Rights Defender (HRD) Bhaskar was informed about the incident. He, along with lawyers, obtained CCTV footage of the protest and police action. However, on January 17, 2025, at 5 AM, a large contingent of police officers, led by multiple senior officials and accompanied by Arani Tahsildar Gowri, surrounded Bhaskar’s house. They attempted to break into the house, prompting Bhaskar to alert Member of Parliament Dr. Thol. Thirumavalavan and other activists. Lawyers and journalists documented the police action.

Bhaskar was forcibly arrested at 8 AM without being informed of the grounds for his arrest. He was taken to Desur police station, where he was informed that he was arrested under FIR No. 5/2025, filed on January 15, 2025. He underwent multiple medical examinations at different hospitals before being declared fit for remand at 11:30 PM. He was then presented before the Judicial Magistrate at 3 AM on January 18, 2025, and remanded to Vellore prison.

On January 27, 2025, Bhaskar’s bail application was rejected by the Principal District and Sessions Judge, Tiruvannamalai, citing 18 pending cases against him and ongoing investigations in FIR No. 5/2025. The prosecution strongly objected to his release.

Human Rights Defenders' Alert - India fears that the police may invoke the Goondas Act against Bhaskar, citing past cases. HRDA believes that his arrest is an act of reprisal for his human rights activism. The arbitrary detention of Bhaskar violates Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantee the right to life and protection against unlawful detention.

Appeal:         

We urge the Hon’ble Commission to take cognisance of the above case and urgently:

• Direct the Director General of Investigation of the NHRC to initiate a transparent, independent inquiry and submit the report to the NHRC.
• Direct the Director General of the Police of Tamil Nadu to ensure the complete physical and psychological safety of the HRD and his family.