Kochi: Transsexuals attacked by police

Kerala police chief Loknath Behera sought a report from the city police commissioner on Sunday over allegations by two transsexuals that they were brutally attacked by the police while they were waiting at a bus shelter at Valanjambalam in Kochi.

He sought the report after the issue was highlighted in the local media. Transsexuals Poorna and Ayesha were admitted in General Hospital in Ernakulam following injuries they suffered from alleged police brutality. Poorna alleged that she was attacked while she was waiting for her mother at the bus shelter last night. Ayesha, who rushed to the spot, questioned the police following which she also experienced police violence, they alleged.

They alleged that police even used abusive words when they realised that they were transsexuals. City police, however, said a section of police was deployed at Valanjambalam area following complaints from locals about the "problems" being created by transsexuals at night.

A policeman was attacked when he intervened to prevent them from disturbing public at busy area in Valanjambalam, police said.

Behera said city police commissioner has launched an investigation into the matter. "Strong action would be taken if police are found guilty," he said.