Is the Eyewitness in the TN Custodial Death Case Safe? A Plea for Protection!
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Synopsis
A pivotal eyewitness in the custodial death of B. Ajith Kumar has reached out to the Tamil Nadu DGP for protection, fearing retaliation from involved officers. This incident has ignited a wider conversation on police brutality in Tamil Nadu, highlighting the need for accountability and safety for those who stand up against injustice.
Key Takeaways
- Eyewitness Safety: The need for witness protection in custodial death cases is critical.
- Police Accountability: Arrests of involved officers highlight the call for accountability in law enforcement.
- Public Outcry: Widespread protests demonstrate the public's demand for justice and reform.
- Use of Technology: Mobile recordings can serve as vital evidence in legal cases.
- Systemic Change: The incident underscores the need for comprehensive reforms in policing practices.
Chennai, July 3 (NationPress) An essential witness in the suspected custodial death of temple security guard B. Ajith Kumar from Sivaganga district has contacted the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) requesting police protection for himself and his family due to significant threats to their well-being.
M. Saktheeswaran (34), who is employed at the Adaikkalam Katha Ayyanar Badrakaliamman Temple in Thiruppuvanam, witnessed the savage police assault on Ajith Kumar, which occurred within the temple grounds in early June.
This attack reportedly resulted in Ajith’s custodial death, igniting widespread public outrage and a statewide discourse on police violence.
Saktheeswaran claims he recorded the event on his mobile device, capturing footage of uniformed officers brutally beating Ajith Kumar.
The video, which rapidly circulated on social media, became a pivotal piece of evidence submitted in court.
As a result of the incident, five police officials, including an inspector, were arrested and charged with murder.
In his communication to the DGP, Saktheeswaran expressed that he has been receiving threats and is apprehensive about retaliation, particularly from one of the suspended officers involved in the case, who reportedly has ties to history-sheeters and known criminals.
He emphasized that his involvement in revealing the custodial killing has made him a target, putting his family at risk as well.
“The court has already recognized the threat and instructed the state to guarantee my safety. Yet, I have not received any police protection to date,” he mentioned in his appeal.
He further insisted that the protection should not come from the Thiruppuvanam police station, where the implicated officers were formerly stationed, citing potential bias or intimidation.
The unfortunate incident occurred on June 12, when B. Ajith Kumar (27), a contract security guard at the temple, was allegedly apprehended by police on theft charges.
CCTV footage and witness accounts later confirmed that he was assaulted within the temple grounds before being transported to the Thiruppuvanam police station. He succumbed the following day, reportedly due to internal injuries.
This custodial death incited protests throughout Tamil Nadu, with human rights advocates, political parties, and the public demanding strict action against the officers involved.
The DGP’s office has yet to address Saktheeswaran’s recent request.
Point of View
I emphasize that the safety of witnesses in custodial death cases must be prioritized. The incident in Tamil Nadu underlines the ongoing struggle against police violence and the need for systemic reform. Upholding justice is paramount, and we must ensure those who stand against such injustices are protected.
NationPress
03/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to B. Ajith Kumar?
B. Ajith Kumar, a temple security guard, allegedly died in police custody following a brutal assault by police officers.
Who is seeking protection?
M. Saktheeswaran, a key eyewitness to the incident, has requested police protection due to threats he has received.
What actions have been taken against the police?
Five police personnel, including an inspector, have been arrested and charged with murder in connection with Ajith's death.
Why is the eyewitness concerned for his safety?
Saktheeswaran fears retaliation from one of the suspended officers, who allegedly has ties to known criminals.
What has been the public reaction?
The custodial death has triggered widespread protests and demands for accountability from human rights activists and the public.
