Mentally ill who are a threat to selves & others liable for police action: Experts

IN THE wake of the Chendamangalam murder in which a 27-year-old killed three of his neighbours, experts point to the wrong perception that police cannot initiate any action against people with psychiatric issues.

- TOBY ANTONY @Kochi

IN THE wake of the Chendamangalam murder in which a 27-year-old killed three of his neighbours, experts point to the wrong perception that police cannot initiate any action against people with psychiatric issues. In fact, the law states that police should take protective measures to ensure that people with mental illness don't become a threat to themselves and others.

Following the murders of Kizhakkumpuram residents Venu, 65, his wife Usha, 62, and their daughter Vinisha, 32, neighbours claimed that multiple police complaints had previously been lodged against the accused Rithu Jayan. However, no action was initiated as he possessed a certificate that stated that he suffered from a mental illness.