What Caused the Outrage Over the Death of a BSF Jawan in Police Custody?
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Synopsis
The suspicious passing of a BSF jawan has triggered outrage in Jharkhand, with villagers demanding accountability from the police. This case raises critical questions about custodial rights and justice. As protests intensify, will the authorities take the necessary steps to ensure justice is served?
Key Takeaways
- Villagers demand accountability from police over BSF jawan's death.
- Suspension of police officer highlights issues in custodial practices.
- Community outrage reflects broader issues of justice in India.
- Need for thorough investigation into custodial deaths.
- Importance of protecting custodial rights for all citizens.
Ranchi, Oct 3 (NationPress) The mysterious death of a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan while in police custody in Jharkhand’s Khunti district has ignited a wave of anger among local residents.
On Friday, hundreds of villagers from nearby areas assembled outside the Murhu police station, protesting and demanding a fair investigation into what they claim is a case of custodial homicide.
The victim, identified as Rahul Manjhi, was a BSF jawan who had recently been stationed in Siliguri, West Bengal.
Family members revealed that he was on extended leave in his hometown in Khunti.
On the evening of September 29, villagers from Mahil allegedly accused Rahul of molestation. Following this, a group of approximately 10-12 individuals, including Bijla Oraon, Moti Oraon, Budhuwa Oraon, and Kartik Munda, reportedly invaded his residence, forcibly taking him to Mahil village and physically assaulting him.
Eyewitnesses reported that Rahul was restrained with a rope and subsequently handed over to the Murhu police.
Authorities assert that Rahul took his own life in the lockup toilet on the morning of September 30, claiming he hanged himself.
However, his family and villagers strongly dispute this narrative. They argue that he was beaten and humiliated under false pretenses and was denied justice following their complaint.
Relatives contend that Rahul submitted a written request at the police station on September 30, naming his assailants and seeking action.
Despite this, the police did not file a case against them. Villagers claim that instead, the police imprisoned him while disregarding his plea.
“This is not suicide; it is murder. The police have shielded the perpetrators and are now attempting to conceal their negligence,” asserted one protestor, demanding immediate arrests and accountability for the police involved.
In response to the unrest, Khunti Superintendent of Police Manish Toppo suspended Murhu Police Station Officer Ramdev Yadav for failing in his duties.
The Superintendent of Police pledged that “a comprehensive investigation will be undertaken, and stringent legal actions will follow based on the evidence gathered.”
Nevertheless, villagers remain skeptical, believing that the suspension is merely a façade unless proper accountability is established against the police's biased actions.
Point of View
We stand with the nation in demanding transparency and accountability in matters of justice. The tragic death of Rahul Manjhi raises serious concerns about custodial rights and police conduct. It is essential for authorities to ensure that justice prevails and that similar incidents do not recur.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the BSF jawan in Jharkhand?
The BSF jawan, Rahul Manjhi, died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody, leading to protests from villagers who allege custodial murder.
Why are villagers protesting?
Villagers are demanding an impartial investigation into the death, which they believe is a case of custodial murder, not suicide as claimed by police.
What actions have been taken by police authorities?
Khunti Superintendent of Police suspended the Murhu Police Station Officer for dereliction of duty and promised a thorough investigation.
What do the victim's family claim?
Family members assert that Rahul was beaten, humiliated, and denied justice after filing a complaint against his attackers.
How did the police respond to the claims of suicide?
The police maintained that Rahul died by suicide in the lockup toilet, despite growing skepticism from the family and villagers.
