The Gujarat High Court has ordered a fresh SIT probe into the alleged custodial death of a 27-year-old Dalit man in Rajkot, highlighting critical concerns about police accountability and custodial violence in India.

High Court Steps In Amid Allegations of Custodial Torture

The Gujarat High Court has ordered the formation of a new Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the alleged custodial death of a 27-year-old Dalit man in Rajkot. The man died within 24 hours of being detained over a minor theft allegation.

Family Alleges Torture and Post-Mortem Tampering

According to the victim’s family, he was subjected to severe custodial torture. They also claimed that the post-mortem report was tampered with to conceal the actual cause of death, contradicting physical injuries and witness statements.

Initial Police Investigation Under Scrutiny

The original investigation conducted by the district police cleared all involved officers, citing natural causes. However, ongoing protests by Dalit rights groups and mounting public pressure prompted the victim’s family to petition the court for an independent probe.

Justice Biren Vaishnav Highlights Major Lapses

Justice Biren Vaishnav stated that initial findings pointed to procedural irregularities, destruction of CCTV footage, and conflicting witness testimonies. The court ordered that a new SIT, led by an independent IPS officer, be formed and that a detailed report be submitted within two months.

Debate Rekindled Over Police Accountability in India

This incident has reignited national debate on police accountability and custodial violence. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has frequently raised concerns over custodial deaths in India. The victim’s family called the court’s decision a “ray of hope for justice.”