What Caused the Outrage in Latehar Over a Man’s Death in Police Custody?
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Synopsis
Tensions in Latehar, Jharkhand escalated after the death of <b>Dukhi Sao</b>, a 55-year-old man, allegedly due to police misconduct. Villagers protested, blocking a major highway, demanding justice and accountability. As the situation unfolded, police clashed with demonstrators, leading to arrests and ongoing unrest in the community, raising questions about law enforcement practices.
Key Takeaways
- Dukhi Sao allegedly died from police violence.
- Protests erupted, blocking highways and causing traffic disruptions.
- The police faced accusations of brutality and misconduct.
- Community tensions are high, with calls for justice and accountability.
- A formal investigation is underway to determine the cause of death.
Latehar (Jharkhand), May 14 (NationPress) Tensions escalated in the district of Latehar, Jharkhand, following the tragic demise of 55-year-old Dukhi Sao, who reportedly died as a result of police violence in the vicinity of the Herhanj police station.
Furious family members and local residents organized a protest by laying his body on the National Highway close to Dharmapur, effectively halting traffic for several hours.
This demonstration caused a significant traffic jam on both sides of the road.
The protesters are demanding accountability for the officers implicated in the alleged beating of Dukhi Sao.
High-ranking police and administrative officials arrived at the scene to calm the situation, but when discussions failed, police resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. The blockade was lifted by around 1 p.m., yet discontent continues to linger in the area.
SDPO Arvind Kumar, who was present during the protests, stated that a medical board has been established to perform a post-mortem examination. “If the findings indicate custodial violence, stringent legal measures will be enforced,” he affirmed.
According to the family of Dukhi Sao, a police unit in plain clothes invaded their home on the night of May 12 due to a land dispute. They assert that the police brutally mistreated Dukhi Sao, alongside women and children present, while also stealing mobile devices and other valuables. Dukhi Sao succumbed to severe injuries from the incident on Tuesday night.
Contrarily, the police provided a different account. Officials claimed that a team, led by the station in-charge, had come to the village based on a tip regarding illegal construction. They alleged that the villagers assaulted the team, injuring eight officers, including the officer in charge.
In the aftermath of the incident, police apprehended five individuals—Roshan Kumar, Pintu Kumar, Sunil Kumar, Pankaj Kumar, and Jitendra Kumar Sao—who were subsequently jailed.
The family contends that those detained were wrongfully accused and is demanding the withdrawal of the FIR against them.
Point of View
It is crucial to examine the underlying issues that contribute to such tragic incidents. The relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve must be built on trust and accountability. As we report on this situation, we advocate for thorough investigations and a commitment to justice, ensuring that the voices of the affected communities are heard.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Dukhi Sao?
Dukhi Sao, a 55-year-old man, allegedly died due to police assault during an incident related to a land dispute.
Why did villagers protest?
Villagers protested to demand accountability for the police officers involved in the alleged beating of Dukhi Sao.
What actions did the police take during the protest?
Police attempted to disperse the crowd using a lathi charge after negotiations failed.
What is the current status of the investigation?
A medical board has been formed to conduct a post-mortem, and if custodial violence is confirmed, legal action will be pursued.
Who were arrested following the incident?
Five individuals were arrested, but the family claims they were falsely implicated.
