Dalit man dies after police detention, family alleges custodial torture
Meerut: A 28-year-old Dalit man allegedly died in police custody in Budaun, sparking controversy over the circumstances surrounding his death. Police claimed on Saturday that he fell ill at the station and subsequently died at a hospital, while his family alleged that he died due to custodial torture.
A purported video showing Rajesh Kumar, who had been detained at Dataganj police station following a violent clash during a community feast that left two-three people injured, lying unconscious on the station floor surfaced on social media on Saturday. In the purported one-minute video, two policemen can be seen supporting Kumar and attempting to administer water to him.
Budaun SSP Ankita Sharma said, “Rajesh was detained on Friday night. His health deteriorated after he returned from the toilet and he collapsed soon afterwards. He was taken to a community health centre and later referred to Budaun district hospital, where he died during treatment.”
The SSP added, “CCTV footage showed no assault on Kumar. A medical panel conducted the postmortem and attributed his death to cardiogenic shock. An inquiry is underway.”
Dr Ritesh Bhasin, a doctor at the local community health centre, said, “Rajesh was brought to the facility in a serious condition with breathing difficulties. Given his condition, he was referred to the district hospital for specialised treatment. No apparent external injuries were found on his body.”
Kumar’s brother, Viresh, disputed the police account, saying Rajesh had no known history of heart disease. “Rajesh was taken to the police station and kept there overnight. He died at the station while in custody,” he alleged.
Courtesy : TOI
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