Did NHRC Take Action on the Death of a Hyderabad Auto-Rickshaw Driver Due to Alleged Police Torture?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- NHRC's proactive measure reflects commitment to human rights.
- Allegations of police torture raise serious concerns.
- Immediate police accountability is crucial for justice.
- Public awareness is essential in human rights cases.
- Legal frameworks must support victims' rights.
New Delhi, June 5 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated suo motu cognizance regarding the tragic death of a 35-year-old auto-rickshaw driver, who reportedly endured severe physical torture at a police station in Hyderabad. The commission has directed the Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) to furnish a comprehensive report on the situation within a fortnight. Highlighting a concerning media report, the NHRC emphasized that if the allegations hold weight, it signifies a grave infringement of the victim's human rights. The deceased, Mohd Irfan, was purportedly subjected to ruthless third-degree torture by the Rajendranagar Police after being taken there by his wife's relatives to address marital disputes.
After mediating the couple's issues, police officers allegedly took Irfan into an adjoining room and severely assaulted him with rubber belts, as recounted by a family member. Following this incident, Irfan emerged from the police station exhibiting symptoms of distress, including vomiting, before collapsing. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead by medical staff.
In response, the police have registered a case under Section 194 (suspicious death) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and have received a complaint from Irfan's wife, claiming that he had been involved in an extramarital affair.
Formed under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the NHRC serves as an independent statutory entity dedicated to fostering and safeguarding human rights in India. Its core mission is to protect and enhance human rights, which encompass the rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity, as guaranteed by the Constitution and international covenants enforceable in Indian courts.
This esteemed human rights commission possesses the authority to act suo motu (on its own accord) based on media disclosures, public awareness, or other channels, even in the absence of formal complaints regarding human rights violations.