Kerala police warning raises questions: Why midnight visits, asks Kappan

A warning of midnight visits to the residence of journalist Siddique Kappan and the police's claim that it was routine when questioned about it, raised eyebrows and created apprehension in the family, who perceived it as an abnormal and unsettling development since Kappan’s release on bail from Uttar Pradesh under the UAPA.

The incident has revived questions about the continued surveillance of Kappan, who was released on bail last year after spending over two years in custody under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

On Saturday evening, two uniformed officers from the Vengara and Tirur police stations arrived at Kappan’s house in Vengara, Malappuram, and informed his wife, Raihanath, that a team from the district would visit the residence after midnight to confirm his presence, as reported by Maktoob media.

Although the officers claimed the inspection was part of a routine procedure linked to his legal case, they provided no clear explanation when asked for details. This ambiguity, coupled with the unusual timing of the visit, left the family disturbed.

Kappan, who was imprisoned in Uttar Pradesh following his arrest while travelling to report on the Hathras gangrape-murder case in 2020, said the manner in which the officers approached the house and interacted with neighbours created a sense of panic in the locality.

He argued that the authorities could have easily contacted him directly if they had genuine concerns about his whereabouts, given that the local police station is located just a short distance away.

The journalist and his wife expressed their willingness to cooperate with any legitimate investigation but questioned the need for police visits during such irregular hours, especially when they had adhered to all bail conditions, including regular reporting at the police station until it was no longer required. The family alleged that they have continued to face intrusive police monitoring since his release, including being followed in public spaces and having their photographs taken.

Following the officers’ visit, the couple informed their lawyer, who subsequently contacted the police to inquire about the legal grounds for a midnight inspection. Despite this, the police reportedly reiterated their claim that the check was routine, without providing any formal clarification. The family later shared the incident on social media, which they believe may have led to the cancellation of the late-night visit.

The Kerala Union of Working Journalists has also raised concerns about the incident, asserting that such actions are outside the norms of standard policing and should not be treated as routine.