Putting an end to police brutality

Source: Indian Express

Relevance: The article highlights the police brutality & steps to stop the custodial deaths

Synopsis: NCRB data have repeatedly shown police brutality, violation of human rights, and even extreme instances of custodial killings.

 Some recent examples include:

• Death of fruit stall owner in Tamil Nadu
• Death of vegetable vendor in UP for violating Covid norms

National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB): According to NCRB data

In 2017—100 cases of custodial deaths were reported, of which 42 were in police custody.  Maharashtra ranked first in custodial deaths, followed by Gujarat and Rajasthan

In 2019—85 cases of custodial deaths were reported, of which no policeman was convicted, although some were arrested and charge-sheeted. Tamil Nadu registered the highest number of cases, followed by Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan

Problem: Although several policemen do get convicted, there are that many who go scot-free — by manipulating records, intimidating complainants or political patronage.

Way Forward:

1. There is a need to give strict and prompt punishment to policemen who are found guilty by the senior officers.
2. Even those police personal should be punished who remain as spectators when the person in custody is being tortured
3. Making accountable, the sub-divisional police officers and superintendents of police for any misconduct that happens under their supervision

Terms to know

• National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB)
• Custodial violence
• Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act