Two Deaths Raise Alarming Concerns
According to reports published on October 11, 2025, the first case involves a 22-year-old final-year B.Tech student who died after an alleged assault by two police constables in Bhopal. The incident occurred on the night of October 9–10 when the youth and his friends were returning from a party. Allegedly, after breaking a bottle on the road, the group was approached by police for questioning.
While two friends managed to escape, the victim was detained and reportedly beaten. CCTV footage circulating online purportedly shows a constable striking him with a baton. The young man succumbed to his injuries shortly after the altercation, sparking outrage on social media and calls for an impartial investigation.
Second Case in Ashoknagar District
In another disturbing case, a 45-year-old man from Bamuria village in Ashoknagar district allegedly died after being beaten by police personnel searching for illicit liquor on October 9, 2025. His family members claimed that he was assaulted and then drowned in a water-filled pit by the police. However, local police have maintained that he fell into the pit while attempting to flee.
The conflicting narratives have intensified public scrutiny, with human rights activists demanding an independent probe. NHRC has directed that the DGP’s report must clarify the sequence of events, medical examination findings, and disciplinary actions initiated, if any.
NHRC’s Call for Accountability
The NHRC emphasized that such incidents, if proven true, reflect a severe violation of human rights and raise concerns about police accountability in India. It reiterated that law enforcement officials are duty-bound to uphold citizens’ rights and not act beyond the scope of lawful authority.
The Commission’s notice seeks to determine whether adequate measures were taken to prevent such abuses and to ensure justice for the victims and their families. NHRC has also asked for updates on compensation, departmental action, and the progress of investigations in both cases.
Human Rights Oversight Strengthened
The NHRC’s proactive stance comes at a time when India continues to strengthen oversight on police conduct through legal and institutional reforms. The Commission has often intervened in cases involving custodial violence and unlawful police actions, urging greater transparency and accountability.
Officials noted that government agencies and state authorities must cooperate fully with the NHRC to ensure a fair and transparent investigation. The outcome of this probe will likely influence future police reform measures in Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
With mounting public concern, the Commission’s intervention signals that alleged misuse of power by law enforcement will not go unchecked. The NHRC’s findings, once submitted, are expected to be made public in due course.
