Is the CBI Uncovering a False Complaint Behind the Custodial Death of a Temple Guard in Sivaganga?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CBI suspects theft complaint may be false.
- Custodial torture led to temple guard's death.
- Evidence contradicts the complainant's statements.
- Public outrage demanding accountability.
- Police conduct under scrutiny.
Chennai, Aug 9 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is raising suspicions that the complaint of theft, which resulted in the custodial torture and subsequent death of a temple guard in the Sivaganga district, might have been fabricated.
Ajithkumar, who served as a guard at the Madappuram Kali temple near Thiruppuvanam, tragically died after reportedly being tortured while in police custody. He had been detained following a complaint made by a woman named Nikitha, who accused him of stealing her jewelry from her vehicle.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage throughout Tamil Nadu, with public calls for justice and accountability. CBI Special Crimes Deputy Superintendent of Police Mohit Kumar from Delhi is overseeing the investigation, which commenced on July 14.
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has instructed the CBI to present its final investigation report by August 20.
As per the updated FIR, five members of a special police unit allegedly assaulted Ajithkumar, fully aware that their actions could result in fatal consequences. The officers reportedly employed excessive force when Ajithkumar denied the theft allegations.
All five officers have been interrogated, arrested, and brought before the court, where they have been remanded to Madurai Central Prison until August 13. Recent evidence revealed by the CBI now significantly undermines the original theft claim.
Investigators discovered that Nikitha's vehicle did not leave the temple parking area on the day she alleged her jewelry was stolen. This directly contradicts her earlier assertion that the jewelry disappeared after she parked her car in a different location.
Officials have also identified numerous inconsistencies in Nikitha's statements during their questioning. Given these discrepancies, the CBI suspects that her complaint may have been intentionally fabricated, triggering a sequence of events that ultimately led to Ajithkumar's death in custody.
This custodial death has heightened public scrutiny regarding police procedures and their handling of theft accusations.
Human rights activists and political factions are demanding stringent action against those accountable, not only for the alleged custodial abuse but also for any involvement in submitting a false complaint.
With the CBI's findings suggesting a potential false theft report, this case has taken a pivotal turn, raising critical questions about police conduct and the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.