The Kerala High Court on Friday issued notice to the State Government and senior police officials after film producer Sheela Kurian alleged that a Deputy Superintendent of Police, Madhu Babu, had behaved inappropriately with her when she visited his office regarding a complaint. The court’s brief but firm intervention signals that even senior officers cannot take liberties with citizens who approach them seeking justice.
Background
The controversy traces back to a money dispute involving a man named Noushad, who had reportedly borrowed ₹15 lakh from Kurian in 2021. Despite repeated requests, the amount was not repaid. The issue took an uglier turn earlier this year when, according to the producer, Noushad’s wife allegedly hurled verbal abuses at her over the phone in February 2025.
Following that episode, Kurian lodged a formal complaint with the District Police Chief, Alappuzha, on the very next day. But her troubles didn’t end there.
She claimed that on February 19, 2025, she was summoned to the office of DySP Madhu Babu around 6 p.m. to discuss the case. What followed, as she narrates in her petition, was “a deeply humiliating encounter” - she alleged that the officer spoke to her rudely and used inappropriate language instead of offering any help.
When she tried to escalate the matter by submitting written complaints to higher authorities, including the State Police Chief, Additional DGP, and Inspector General of Police, no meaningful action was taken. The lack of response, she said, forced her to move the High Court.
Court’s Observations
During the preliminary hearing, the bench appeared concerned about the alleged inaction of the police machinery. The court noted that complaints involving misconduct by police officers demand timely scrutiny, especially when a citizen has already approached multiple levels of the administration.
“The bench observed, ‘Every individual, regardless of their status or profession, deserves to be treated with dignity when they seek assistance from law enforcement. Allegations of rude or improper conduct by an officer cannot be brushed aside casually.’”
The court’s remarks hinted at a growing judicial unease over the way complaints against police officers are sometimes left unattended. While the court did not make any comment on the truth of the allegations, it said that a prima facie response from the concerned authorities was necessary.
Decision
Accordingly, the Kerala High Court issued notice to the State Government, the State Police Chief, and the concerned officers, directing them to explain the steps taken so far regarding the complaints filed by Sheela Kurian.
The court has also sought a status report on the action taken by the police, including whether any inquiry or departmental proceedings were initiated against DySP Madhu Babu.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on November 11, by which time the respondents are expected to file their responses.
With the notice issued, the High Court has made it clear that allegations of misconduct within the police force will not be taken lightly, especially when raised by a citizen who claims to have been seeking justice in good faith.
Case Title: Thilakeshwari @ Sheela Kurian v. State of Kerala & Ors.
Case No.: WP (Crl.) No. 1339 of 2025
Date of Order: October 10, 2025
Next Hearing: November 11, 2025