Did CBI Register Case in Custodial Death of Temple Guard in TN's Sivaganga?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CBI intervention highlights the importance of accountability in police actions.
- The case underscores the need for reforms to prevent custodial violence.
- Public outrage is a powerful force for demanding justice.
- Judicial oversight is crucial in ensuring fair procedures.
- Continued advocacy from human rights groups is essential for change.
Chennai, July 12 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated a case against police officials from Sivaganga district in Tamil Nadu related to the custodial death of a private security guard working at the Madapuram Temple in Thiruppuvanam.
The CBI's intervention comes under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which addresses crimes associated with custodial violence and fatalities.
On June 28, a special police team apprehended Ajith Kumar concerning an informal report of jewel theft near the Badrakali Amman Temple.
Although there was no formal arrest or warrant, he was taken into custody and reportedly endured severe torture during an unofficial interrogation.
The following day, Ajith was rushed to the Government Hospital in Madurai with multiple injuries and was pronounced dead on June 29.
An autopsy indicated severe physical trauma consistent with custodial abuse.
This incident sparked widespread protests across Tamil Nadu, with civil society organizations, human rights groups, and political entities demanding prompt justice and accountability.
The victim's family accused the police of trying to conceal the truth by categorizing the death as natural and claimed there were attempts to cremate the body swiftly without a thorough post-mortem.
Public outrage, combined with intervention from rights organizations, led to a second autopsy being conducted under judicial oversight.
The Madras High Court's Madurai Bench expressed deep concern over recurrent custodial violence in the state.
A CBI team from the Special Crime Branch in Delhi has commenced preliminary investigations, which include gathering evidence, reviewing medical records, and identifying the involved officers.
The agency is anticipated to file charges against several police officials and enhance scrutiny of custodial practices in Tamil Nadu.