Jammu: Just as the community was beginning to process the death of Makhandeen in Kathua’s Billawar, another custodial death has unsettled the region. In a distressing development, a man accused of theft succumbed while in police custody in Ramban district. Authorities had apprehended Mohammad Abid Malik, a resident of Batote, along with two others in relation to a theft incident at an oxygen production facility. This occurrence has raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of individuals in custody, prompting a magisterial inquiry into the situation.

Arrest and Health Condition

According to reports, the arrest was executed on Saturday following a complaint lodged by the Block Medical Officer (BMO) of Batote. The BMO reported a theft at the hospital's oxygen production facility, leading to a police investigation. Muhammad Abid Malik and two others were detained for questioning. Police assert that the accused confessed to the crime during interrogation. However, on Monday afternoon, Abid’s health began to decline while in custody. He was promptly transported to the Community Health Center (CHC) in Batote, where doctors administered treatment prior to returning him to the police station.

The situation escalated on Tuesday morning when Abid again reported severe discomfort. This time, authorities transported him to the hospital, where he was subsequently admitted for treatment. Despite receiving medical attention, his condition continued to worsen, and by evening, he was pronounced dead. His family has since alleged police misconduct and is calling for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the circumstances of his death.

Investigation Ordered

In response to this unfortunate incident, the District Magistrate of Ramban has directed Sub-Divisional Magistrate Banihal, Rizwan, to carry out a thorough investigation into the events leading to Abid’s death. The inquiry aims to ascertain the cause of his health decline and to determine whether any negligence or malpractice occurred. Meanwhile, authorities have committed to ensuring transparency throughout the investigation, emphasizing that justice will prevail if any misconduct is identified.

Family's Call for Accountability

Mohammad Aslam, the deeply saddened father of the deceased, has made an earnest appeal to the administration for justice. Aslam, a resident of Thopal, Batote, is convinced that his son’s death was not of natural causes and has urged higher authorities to hold accountable those responsible. He has also requested an independent autopsy to ascertain the actual cause of death.

How did he suddenly fall so sick and die in custody? We need answers. We need justice.

His statements have resonated with local residents, who are also questioning the police’s role in Abid’s death. Some community members have expressed concerns over alleged custodial violence and have called for a fair and unbiased investigation.

Police Version and Response

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ramban, Kulbir Singh, has maintained that the arrest was based on evidence and that all three accused had admitted to the crime during questioning. He further stated that Abid's health issues were promptly addressed, and there was no mistreatment from the authorities.

As soon as his health deteriorated, we took him to the hospital. Doctors treated him and found no major health issues at the time. However, when his condition worsened, we ensured he received proper medical attention. We are fully cooperating with the investigation,” SSP Singh stated.

He also reassured the public that if any negligence or misconduct is found in the inquiry, strict action will be taken against those responsible.

Legal and Human Rights Concerns

The custodial death of Abid Malik has reignited debates over human rights violations in police custody. Legal experts and human rights activists have called for strict adherence to custodial rights and proper medical care for detainees. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has often emphasized the need for better monitoring of prisoners’ health conditions, but such incidents continue to raise questions about the effectiveness of these safeguards.

Legal professionals suggest that the investigation should include medical records, CCTV footage from the police station and hospital, and testimonies from fellow detainees. If foul play is detected, legal proceedings against responsible officers must be initiated to ensure justice.

Public Reaction and Political Response

The incident has sparked outrage among local communities, with some residents expressing their distrust in law enforcement agencies. Several social and political activists have also condemned the incident, demanding swift justice and stringent measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Political leaders from opposition parties have also weighed in on the matter, calling for an impartial probe and questioning the conditions under which Abid was held. Some have even called for the intervention of human rights organizations to ensure that justice is not compromised.

Need for Custodial Reforms

This case has once again highlighted the urgent need for reforms in custodial procedures. Experts argue that detainees should have guaranteed access to legal counsel and medical treatment from the moment of arrest. Regular medical check-ups and independent oversight can prevent future cases of custodial mistreatment.

The implementation of CCTV monitoring in all police stations and interrogation rooms has been suggested as a preventive measure to enhance transparency and accountability. Additionally, sensitization training for law enforcement officers can ensure that human rights are upheld during interrogations and detentions.