NHRC Probes Custodial Torture Allegation in Delhi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India has initiated a suo motu investigation into the tragic death of a man allegedly tortured while in police custody at Dwarka North Police Station, Delhi.
Allegations of Torture and Suicide
A media report published on July 12, 2025, revealed that the police detained a man on July 10 in connection with a theft complaint filed by a woman supervisor. The man, a contract employee at IP University and a resident of Nangli Vihar, died by suicide at his home within 24 hours.
His family alleges that the police physically assaulted him during the interrogation and gave him electric shocks. They noticed injury marks on his body and severe swelling in one ear. They also recovered a suicide note from the scene, which supports the allegations of custodial torture.
The NHRC has deemed the media report concerning and indicative of a possible human rights violation. In response, it has issued a notice to the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, demanding a detailed report within two weeks. The report must explain the circumstances surrounding the arrest, allegations of torture, and the police’s adherence to lawful procedures.
Medical and Legal Concerns
Family members took the victim to a hospital following the alleged assault, but he was referred to Indira Gandhi Hospital for further treatment. No official response has been made public regarding medical evaluations. The victim died the next day, raising serious questions about the role of law enforcement and custodial practices.
This incident has once again brought into focus the rising cases of custodial torture and deaths in India. While the NHRC regularly intervenes in such matters, effective accountability remains elusive.
Custodial Deaths: A National Concern
India has witnessed multiple custodial deaths in recent years, sparking widespread debate about police reform. According to a 2023 NCRB report, over 100 deaths in custody were recorded in a single year. Most such deaths are allegedly due to torture or neglect by authorities.
Legal experts stress the need for strict adherence to guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court and NHRC to prevent custodial abuse. Video recording of interrogations, timely medical check-ups, and rights-based training for police are often recommended but rarely implemented effectively.
Call for Transparency and Reform
Human rights advocates are demanding an impartial investigation monitored by the NHRC or a judicial body. “If the allegations are true, this is not just a case of police overreach, but a collapse of human dignity and rule of law,” said a senior Delhi-based rights activist.
This case must not be allowed to fade into media oblivion. Systemic reforms and transparency in policing are critical to restore public trust.
Conclusion
As the NHRC awaits the response from Delhi Police, civil society remains watchful. The incident underlines the urgency of police reforms in India, an issue long overdue for concrete action.