Peechi custodial torture: Human Rights Commission sends notice seeking report on actions taken

THRISSUR: State Human Rights Commission member V. Geetha has directed the State Police Chief to urgently submit a report on the action taken against the former Sub-Inspector of the Peechi police station in connection with custodial torture, based on CCTV footage from the station. The reply has been sought within a week.

The commission had earlier, on May 30, instructed the State Police Chief to provide an explanation within a month. However, no response was filed, prompting the latest notice. The commission has also sought clarification on whether any legal obstacles exist in providing the complainant, a social activist, with a copy of the CCTV footage related to the incident. This explanation too has been demanded without delay.

In addition, the commission has called for a report on the feasibility of displaying in all police stations the contact details of offices where the public can lodge complaints regarding human rights violations in custody. This information must also be submitted urgently.

The case stems from a petition filed by social activist P. B. Satheesh against custodial torture at the Peechi police station. The commission’s investigation wing has already probed the incident and submitted its findings.