Will the Supreme Court Address Allegations of Custodial Torture and Sexual Assault of a Minor in Gujarat?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court agrees to hear a plea regarding the severe allegations of custodial torture and sexual assault of a minor in Gujarat, raising critical questions about police conduct and the protection of minors.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent hearing by the Supreme Court on custodial torture allegations.
- Severe health consequences faced by the minor due to police actions.
- Demand for accountability from the police and state authorities.
- Importance of protecting fundamental rights of minors.
- Need for a thorough investigation to ensure justice.
New Delhi, Sep 12 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has agreed to prioritize a plea concerning alleged custodial torture and sexual assault involving a 17-year-old boy by officials of the Botad Town Police Station in Gujarat.
Following the mention of the case, Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai ordered that it be scheduled for a hearing on Monday (September 15). The petition, submitted by the boy's sister, claims he was detained by the police on August 19 over suspicions of stealing gold and cash. Instead of being brought before the Juvenile Justice Board or a magistrate within 24 hours, the minor was unlawfully held and subjected to torture for nearly ten days.
“During his unlawful detention, the petitioner’s brother faced severe beatings from four to six police officers at the Botad Town Police Station and was subjected to sexual assault involving the insertion of sticks into his anus,” the petition alleges.
The plea also highlights that the police neglected to conduct a necessary medical examination and coerced family members into signing false statements claiming the child had fallen off a bicycle.
The boy was subsequently taken to Zydus Hospital in Ahmedabad, where he remains in the ICU undergoing dialysis due to kidney damage allegedly inflicted during the custodial assault. He is also experiencing temporary loss of eyesight, seizures, and bowel incontinence.
The petition characterized his situation as an outrageous violation of fundamental rights, including the right to live with dignity, personal liberty, and life. The plea requested the formation of a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) or, alternatively, an inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) under the apex court's oversight. Despite a representation submitted by the Minority Coordination Committee Gujarat on September 5, calling for the suspension of the police officers and the initiation of an FIR, the state government has reportedly taken “no action thus far.”
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that the reported allegations of custodial torture and sexual assault are deeply disturbing and merit immediate attention. The justice system must uphold the rights of every individual, especially minors, and ensure accountability among law enforcement agencies. This case not only raises questions of police conduct but also highlights the need for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable populations.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against the police in Gujarat?
The police are accused of custodial torture and sexual assault of a 17-year-old boy, who was allegedly beaten and subjected to sexual violence during his unlawful detention.
What action has the Supreme Court taken?
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case urgently, with a scheduled hearing on September 15.
Why was the boy detained by the police?
The boy was detained over allegations of theft of gold and cash, but the circumstances surrounding his detention are being questioned.
What health issues has the boy faced following his detention?
He is currently in the ICU at Zydus Hospital, suffering from kidney damage, temporary loss of eyesight, seizures, and bowel incontinence.
What does the petition request?
The petition seeks the formation of a Special Investigation Team or a CBI inquiry under the Supreme Court's supervision to investigate the case.
