What Actions is the Telangana SHRC Taking Regarding Police Encounter Killings?
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Synopsis
The Telangana State Human Rights Commission has taken a significant step by initiating suo moto cognizance of a police encounter killing, raising crucial human rights concerns. This case spotlights the balance between law enforcement actions and the fundamental Right to Life, prompting an urgent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana SHRC has taken suo moto cognizance of a police encounter killing.
- Accused, Sheikh Riyaz, was involved in the murder of a police officer.
- The Commission is demanding a detailed report from the DGP.
- The incident raises significant human rights concerns.
- Next hearing is set for October 24.
Hyderabad, Oct 21 (NationPress) The Telangana State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has initiated suo moto cognizance regarding the shooting death of an individual implicated in the murder of a police officer during an alleged police encounter at a hospital in Nizamabad. The Commission has mandated the Director General of Police to provide a comprehensive report.
On Tuesday, the Human Rights Commission acknowledged reports from various newspapers about an incident that transpired on Monday in Nizamabad. In this incident, a suspect charged with murdering Constable Pramod Kumar was fatally shot by police personnel during an alleged encounter.
The deceased, Sheikh Riyaz, had been arrested recently in connection with the murder of Constable Pramod Kumar and succumbed to injuries during the encounter at the hospital where he was receiving treatment.
It has been reported that the accused attempted to seize the firearm of an Armed Reserve Constable and tried to flee, prompting the police to open fire, citing self-defense, which resulted in his immediate death.
The Director General of Police, B. Shivadhar Reddy, stated that the incident was a matter of self-defense as the accused allegedly attempted to shoot at police personnel, as noted by the Commission.
“This incident raises significant concerns regarding custodial circumstances and the Right to Life as enshrined in Article 21 of the Constitution of India. It also raises compliance issues with guidelines established by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of People’s Union for Civil Liberties vs. State of Maharashtra (2014) 10 SCC 635, along with NHRC Guidelines (2010, reaffirmed 2014) regarding encounter fatalities. Given the serious human rights implications, the Commission believes this matter is suitable for suo-motu cognizance under Regulation 25 of the A.P. State Human Rights Commission (Procedure) Regulations, 2013,
the Commission stated.
Upon taking suo-motu cognizance of Riyaz's alleged encounter death, the Commissioner instructed the DGP to provide a detailed factual report by the next hearing on October 24. This report should include details about the circumstances leading to the encounter, the status of the magisterial inquiry, any departmental or judicial proceedings initiated, and adherence to NHRC and Supreme Court guidelines on encounter deaths, alongside a copy of the FIR and post-mortem report.
Riyaz was accused of fatally stabbing Police Constable Pramod Kumar (42) while being escorted to a police station in Nizamabad on October 17.
The DGP had launched a manhunt for Riyaz, who managed to escape after murdering the Constable.
On October 19, Riyaz attacked an individual named Asif near Sarangapur, falling under the jurisdiction of the Nizamabad Town 6 Police Station. Asif, who was assisting the police in capturing Riyaz, sustained severe injuries during the altercation. Both individuals were transported to a hospital for treatment, and Riyaz was ultimately taken into custody.
According to police records, Riyaz was implicated in 61 criminal cases, including three attempted murders, robbery, and snatching. Additionally, there are 50 theft cases against him, with six registered in Maharashtra.
Point of View
The involvement of the Telangana State Human Rights Commission in this incident reflects a crucial commitment to uphold human rights standards. The balance between effective law enforcement and protecting citizens' rights is a delicate one, and it is essential that thorough investigations are conducted to ensure accountability and justice.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Telangana SHRC's role in this case?
The Telangana State Human Rights Commission is investigating the encounter killing to ensure compliance with human rights standards and the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
What prompted the SHRC to take action?
Reports of an alleged police encounter killing of an accused in a police officer's murder led the SHRC to initiate suo moto cognizance.
What are the legal implications of this incident?
The case raises important questions regarding adherence to Supreme Court guidelines on encounter deaths and the legal standards for self-defense.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing is scheduled for October 24, where the DGP is required to submit a detailed report.
What were the circumstances of the encounter?
The encounter reportedly occurred when the accused attempted to flee and allegedly tried to attack police personnel.
