Tripura Human Rights Commission seeks report on custodial death

The victim, who was allegedly beaten up in a police station in south Tripura, died in hospital later; Youth Congress workers protest outside commission’s office

The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has directed the State Police to investigate a reported incident of custodial death in Tripura that has sparked protests and a political row in the State. Tripura’s Director General of Police has been given two weeks to submit a report on the circumstances surrounding the death of Badal Tripura and the actions taken.

Badal, 34, was arrested from his home on October 13. He was allegedly beaten up in the lock-up of the Manu Bazar Police Station in south Tripura, causing severe injuries. The next day, he was shifted to a hospital, where he died on October 15.

The THRC, chaired by Justice (Retired) Swapan Chandra Das, issued the directive. The rights body took action after Youth Congress workers staged a protest outside its office in the Kunjaban locality on Saturday (October 20, 2024). The Congress waved black flags outside the Commission’s office and accused it of “not intervening” in the case.

Death sparks protests

The death sparked protests with members of an indigenous community staging a sit-in outside the Manu Bazar police station and organising a blockade on the main highway for several hours before dispersing on the assurance of proper investigation and justice.

Also read: Poor account for 71% of custodial deaths in India

The protesters accused the THRC of being a mere spectator in the alleged “gross human rights violations” in the State. Amid the protests, the police suspended five personnel, including a sub-inspector, a constable and three SPOs attached to the police station. They are currently in police remand.

Leaders from various political parties continue to visit the deceased man’s residence in the Manu Bazar area. BJP State vice-president Subal Bhowmik visited the bereaved family on Sunday (October 20, 2024).

Published - October 20, 2024 09:15 pm IST