Thiruvananthapuram: With elections approaching in Kerala, BJP candidate from Vattiyoorkkavu and former police chief R. Sreelekha has levelled serious allegations against the state government, accusing it of failing to protect women and ignoring crimes she linked to so-called “love jihad.”
Speaking during a public interaction programme, Sreelekha claimed that the administration has consistently overlooked such crimes, resulting in a worsening law-and-order situation for women. She alleged that incidents involving violence against women are not treated with urgency and that the system lacks accountability.
The former DGP further cited a recent instance involving a minister’s family, claiming that even direct appeals to the police did not prompt timely intervention. According to her, political interference has weakened policing, with officers allegedly unable to act independently without approval from higher authorities influenced by the government.
Sreelekha also raised concerns over what she described as a sharp rise in crimes against women over recent years, arguing that the situation reflects a broader social environment where such offences are increasingly normalised. She suggested that even senior officers face institutional constraints, limiting their ability to act decisively in sensitive cases.
Highlighting her own experience in the police force, she asserted that women, including those in uniform, face insecurity due to the prevailing system. She contended that political priorities often override public safety, leaving victims without adequate support.
Positioning her candidacy as a response to these concerns, Sreelekha said she would focus on strengthening women’s safety mechanisms if elected. She called for a political shift in the state, arguing that a change in governance is necessary to restore confidence and ensure protection for women.
She also drew comparisons with the leadership at the Centre under Narendra Modi, asserting that similar governance principles are needed in Kerala to address the issue effectively.