CHENNAI– The father of Kavin Selvaganesh, a 27-year-old Dalit software engineer brutally murdered in Tirunelveli, has accused a local police officer of playing a direct role in what is being investigated as an honor killing.
Speaking to reporters, Kavin’s father alleged that Palayamkottai Inspector Kasi Pandian colluded with the main accused, Surjith, and facilitated the killing. He claimed the inspector tipped off Surjith about his son’s movements and repeatedly threatened Kavin to end his relationship with Surjith’s sister, who belongs to an intermediary caste.
He further alleged that the inspector organized a caste-based panchayat to pressure Kavin to break off the relationship and even issued death threats. “He is not a police officer; he is a gang leader,” the grieving father said, demanding the officer’s immediate suspension.
He also noted that Surjith’s parents, both police sub-inspectors, had worked in the same department as Inspector Pandian, suggesting close ties. According to him, the inspector compelled Surjith to surrender after the murder to manage the fallout.
This is not the first time the officer has faced such allegations — in 2023, he was accused of organizing a similar caste panchayat linked to the murder of BJP functionary Jagan.
Police say Surjith lured Kavin to his home on July 27 under the guise of a discussion. En route, Surjith allegedly attacked him with a sickle. Though Kavin attempted to escape, he was overpowered and hacked to death.
Surjith has been remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. His father has also been taken into custody, while his mother, Krishnakumari, remains absconding. Kavin’s family has refused to accept his body from Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital until she is arrested.
In response to mounting public outrage, the Tamil Nadu Police have transferred the case to the Crime Branch–Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) for further investigation. Authorities have also booked Surjith under the stringent Goondas Act, citing his threat to public order.
The murder has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed demands for stronger action against caste-based honor killings in the state. (Source: IANS)
