Petition on Alleged Custodial Death: Seeking Justice for Victims of Police Brutality

In a notable instance of judicial intervention, the Telangana High Court has taken cognizance of a letter written by Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar concerning the alleged custodial death of Nitish Kumar, a security guard employed in Gachibowli. The letter, based on a report published in The New Indian Express on July 17, 2023, was converted into a suo motu writ petition by the High Court, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and transparency in cases of alleged police misconduct.

Case Background and Allegations

Nitish Kumar, originally from Bihar, was working for a construction company in Nanakramguda, Gachibowli. Following a scuffle involving some coworkers, Nitish was reportedly detained by the Gachibowli police for interrogation and held for three days. During this period, it is alleged that coercive methods were used by the police, which led to Nitish collapsing and later passing away within minutes of being brought to Gandhi Hospital. While the police attributed his death to a heart attack, Advocate Bhaskar’s petition pointed to evidence suggesting police torture as a possible cause of death.

Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar’s Call for Justice and Accountability

In his petition, Advocate Bhaskar has sought justice for the family of Nitish Kumar, including compensation for his dependents and a full investigation into the circumstances of his death. His letter emphasized that Nitish’s death, allegedly caused by police actions, highlights systemic issues and called for stringent action against those responsible to prevent similar tragedies.

Furthermore, Advocate Bhaskar raised concerns about the recurring pattern of lockup deaths due to alleged torture within Telangana police stations. His petition urged the court to acknowledge the serious implications of these incidents and take decisive steps to ensure accountability and protect the rights of individuals in police custody.

Court’s Response and Next Steps

The Telangana High Court, recognizing the gravity of these allegations, has issued notices to the Principal Secretary (Home), the Director General of Police, the Police Commissioner, and the Gachibowli Station House Officer. This response reflects the court’s commitment to investigating potential abuses of power within the state’s law enforcement agencies and underscores the judiciary’s role in upholding citizens’ rights and safeguarding human dignity.

The case will be heard by a bench led by the Acting Chief Justice, focusing on the circumstances surrounding Nitish Kumar’s death and the actions of the officers involved. Through this petition, Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar continues his advocacy for justice, shedding light on the need for systemic reform and the protection of human rights within law enforcement.

A Strong Stance Against Custodial Deaths

This PIL serves as a significant reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement. Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar’s dedication to pursuing justice for victims of custodial misconduct underlines his role as a committed defender of human rights and his determination to prevent further cases of alleged police brutality. His efforts, through this petition, aim to foster a legal environment that prioritizes fairness, justice, and the protection of all individuals under the law.