Hyderabad: Probe Initiated into Alleged Custodial Torture of Dalit Woman
In a distressing development, a Dalit woman in Hyderabad has accused police of torturing her while she was in custody, amid suspicions of her involvement in a theft case. The incident, which emerged on Sunday, reportedly took place several days ago at the Shadnagar police station.
The victim recounted her experience to the media, stating, “First they beat my husband and sent him away. Then they took me into custody and forced me to wear just a half knicker, making me strip my clothes.” She described how officers subjected her to brutal treatment: “One officer held my braid, while two others placed sticks on my legs and beat me. I pleaded with them not to punish me for a crime I did not commit, saying I would rather beg than resort to theft.” Despite her claims of a broken leg, the police continued their assault, advising her to walk or risk permanent damage.
According to the FIR filed on July 24, which was reviewed by TNIE, the woman was not officially booked in the case. Instead, she was brought in for questioning following a complaint by Ubbani Nagender, a resident of Farooqnagar, who reported a burglary at his home involving stolen valuables and cash.
The Shadnagar police had registered a case under Sections 331(3) and 305 of the BNS Act for trespassing and theft. The woman and her husband were taken into custody last week. After her release, the victim alleged mistreatment by Shadnagar Detective Inspector Ramireddy.
In response to these allegations, Cyberabad Commissioner of Police Avinash Mohanty has ordered an inquiry led by Shadnagar ACP NCH
Rangaswamy. Mohanty assured that appropriate disciplinary actions would follow based on the inquiry’s findings. He noted, “If any part of the allegations is confirmed, stringent measures will be implemented, ranging from reprimand to reduction in pay.”
Additionally, Mohanty has placed Inspector Ramireddy on attachment to the Cyberabad headquarters pending the outcome of the investigation.