Forest Officer Ratheesh Kumar Suspended in Wayanad Molestation Attempt Case

Wayanad: Forest Officer Ratheesh Kumar has been suspended in connection with a case involving an alleged attempt to molest a female forest department official inside her office in Wayanad. The disciplinary action was initiated after an incriminating audio recording of Ratheesh Kumar surfaced. The Padinjarathara police are actively investigating the matter, with the Forest Department also conducting its own internal inquiry into the incident.

The audio recording, which was released recently, reportedly captures Ratheesh Kumar exerting pressure on the complainant. In the conversation, Ratheesh Kumar is heard admitting to his mistake and pleading with the victim not to disgrace him. He further attempts to influence her by promising assistance if she withdraws the case and offering monetary compensation. However, the female employee can be heard questioning who will be held accountable for the humiliation she endured.

The complaint against Ratheesh Kumar, who was serving as the Sugandhagiri Section Forest Officer at the time, was lodged by the forest department official last week. Following the receipt of the complaint, Ratheesh Kumar was transferred from Sugandhagiri to Kalpetta. The Padinjarathara police continue their investigation into the case.