Outrage Erupts Over Shocking Custodial Death of Tamil Nadu Security Guard

The recent tragic case of an alleged custodial death involving a 28-year-old temple security guard from Sivagangai, Tamil Nadu has ignited widespread outrage. A post-mortem examination revealed a horrifying 44 external injuries, along with internal bleeding and evident signs of severe torture. The incident has resulted in the suspension and arrest of five police officers, prompting the Tamil Nadu government to hand over the investigation to the CBI. This case has once again raised critical concerns regarding custodial violence and the need for police accountability in the region.

Explore detailed statistics on Custodial Deaths and Registered Cases at Dataful

According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), an alarming average of 92 custodial deaths occurred annually in police custody from 2000 to 2022. The peak was in 2005, with a staggering 128 deaths, followed closely by 118 in both 2007 and 2013. In contrast, the year 2010 recorded the lowest number, with 70 deaths.

Furthermore, between the years 2010–11 and 2021–22, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) noted an average of over 1,700 cases related to custodial deaths each year. The period of 2020–21 saw the highest number, with 1,945 cases reported, while 2010–11 had the fewest at 1,572. Comparing the two types of custody during this interval, the average number of cases against officials in judicial custody was notably higher, at 1,596 per year, compared to just 137 for police custody.

Despite the alarming frequency of these incidents, the NHRC’s recommendations for action against officials have been disappointingly low. Between 2016–17 and 2021–22, only 21 officials faced recommended disciplinary action, and no prosecutions were suggested during this timeframe.