The Railway police have registered a case against Kasaragod Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Jose Matthew following a complaint that he allegedly behaved indecently towards women passengers and made obscene gestures while travelling on the Okha Express.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred when the women were travelling from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod on Saturday. They alleged that the DFO behaved inappropriately towards them and made objectionable gestures during the journey.
The women alerted the police control room while the train was en route. Following alert a police person reached the train and collected preliminary information and RPF and local police also jointly care that initial details as part of measures to ensure passenger safety.
The Kasaragod Railway police subsequently registered a case and launched a detailed investigation. Officers are collecting statement from other passengers and examination evidence related to the complaint.
The police said further legal action would be taken if the allegations are substantiated during the investigation. This could include the arrest of the accused officer. The exact section of law to be invoked will be determine based on the findings of the investigation
Authorities said the version of the accused officer would also have to be examined as part of the investigation. No response has so far be obtained from Mr. Mathew regarding the allegations.
Published – August 24, 2026 10:22 am IST
