The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered the Idukki District Collector to investigate the death of a 27-year-old man who died after his two-wheeler fell into a roadside pit at Muthalakkodam near Thódupuzha.
Taking a suo motu case of the incident based on media reports, SHRC Chairman Alexander Thomas directed the Collector to appoint an officer of the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) from outside the district to conduct the investigation. The Commission further directed the Inspector General (IG) South Zone to recommend a suitable officer for the task and provide necessary police personnel to assist.
The probe will determine whether the public works department (PWD) was responsible for not covering the pit and whether there was misconduct on the part of specific officials. Additionally, the investigator must verify that the victim, identified as Joys Benny, had valid insurance on her vehicle. The final report must also state any steps taken to provide compensation to the victim’s family.
Separate report
Further, the commission asked the PWD vigilance department to submit its investigation report. The Chief Engineer PWD (Roads) is required to submit a separate report within six weeks containing the findings of the vigilance wing. The Investigating Officer along with the Deputy Chief Engineer and District Collector must appear before the Commission during its session at Thodupuzha.
The fatal accident occurred on February 15 at approximately 10:45 p.m. Benny, a resident of Muthalakkodam, was traveling towards Thodupuzha when he allegedly lost control of his scooter near a construction site. He fell into a deep pit next to a culvert and suffered fatal injuries.
Published – 20 Feb 2026 20:37 IST