Traffic cop in the dock for automan's suicide

A case has been filed against a traffic police constable in Malegaon for allegedly abetting a rickshaw driver to commit suicide.

According to Malegaon city police, the complaint against constable Bhagare has been filed by Sagar Kote, the brother of the deceased rickshaw driver Santosh Kote. Sagar mentioned in his complaint that Santosh was returning towards Mausaum bridge after dropping some passengers at the Malegaon bus stand on May 8, when he was stopped by Bhagare.

When Bhagare asked for his driving documents, Santosh could not show them as they were not available with him. His rickshaw was then taken to the police station. Later, on the same day, Santosh brought all the documents to the constable. In spite of that, Bhagare fined Kote. Frustrated over the harassment by Bhagare, Santosh went home around 11 pm, poured petrol on his body and set himself on fire.

Santosh was admitted to the government hospital but he succumbed to his injuries May13. Santosh's relatives refused to accept his body accusing Bhagare of abetting his suicide. Rickshaw union members and the family have demanded strict action against the constable.

The family members took the body home only after senior police officials and corporators consoled them.

The police have registered an offense against Bhagare under section 306 of the IPC.