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Supreme Court summons Kochi ACP to explain FIR delay
On May 11, 2026, the Supreme Court directed the Kochi City ACP to appear in person on May 15, 2026 to explain why a formal FIR was not registered after receiving a post-sent complaint about outraging modesty. The order came on a special leave petition challenging a Kerala High Court denial of anticipatory bail in an assault/criminal trespass case. The court criticized the State affidavit as unsatisfactory and extended interim protection for the petitioner.
Why It Matters
The case shows judicial scrutiny over police actions in FIR registration in sensitive matters, highlighting accountability and timely response by law enforcement in cases involving women from Scheduled categories.
Timeline
5 Events
ACP to appear before Supreme Court
May 15, 2026
The ACP, who had moved out of the post, indicated that he will appear before the apex court as ordered on May 15, 2026.
Supreme Court directs ACP to appear on May 15
May 11, 2026
A bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and R. Mahadevan directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police, District Ernakulam, to be personally present before the Court on May 15, 2026 to explain why no formal FIR was registered after receipt of the complaint on January 8, 2026.
Order issued prompting affidavit
April 2, 2026
An order issued on April 2, 2026 prompted the State government to file an affidavit in response to the matter.
Interim protection extended to petitioner
February 19, 2026
The court extended the interim protection granted to the petitioner on February 19, 2026, to continue till the next date of listing.
Complaint received by ACP via post
January 8, 2026
The complaint alleging outraging the modesty of a woman from a Scheduled category, sent through post, was received by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, District Ernakulam, on January 8, 2026.