A shocking allegation of Meghalaya police torture has surfaced, with a 19-year-old youth claiming he was brutally tortured and forced to drink toilet water while in custody at the Sohra police station in East Khasi Hills district.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage among human rights groups, political leaders, and the general public, prompting demands for swift investigation and justice.
Youth Left Seriously Injured
Officials said the teenager, whose identity is being withheld for legal reasons, was picked up by the Sohra police last week on suspicion of involvement in a theft case.
During his custody, the youth alleges he was repeatedly assaulted, denied basic human rights, and subjected to inhumane treatment.
“The police tied my hands and beat me with sticks. Then they forced me to drink water from the toilet,” the youth told local media, his voice trembling as he described the ordeal.
He added that he was denied medical help despite suffering injuries on his back, arms, and legs.
Family Demands Justice
The youth’s family has demanded strict action against the police personnel responsible for the alleged torture.
His mother, speaking through tears, said: “My son has done nothing wrong. Even if he was a suspect, is this how human beings are treated? He can’t sleep at night because of pain and fear.”
The family has filed a formal complaint with senior police officials and human rights organizations.
Police Response to Allegations
Reacting to the allegations, East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtnger said the matter is under investigation.
“We have received a complaint about alleged custodial torture at Sohra PS. A departmental inquiry has been initiated. Strict action will follow if any officer is found guilty,” SP Nongtnger told reporters.
He urged people not to jump to conclusions until the inquiry is completed.
Human Rights Groups Slam Meghalaya Police
Local and national human rights organizations have condemned the incident, calling it a blatant violation of human dignity and constitutional rights.
“Custodial torture is one of the gravest human rights violations. Forcing anyone to drink toilet water is an act of extreme cruelty,” said a statement from the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC).
The MHRC has taken suo motu cognizance of the incident and has sought a report from the state police within 15 days.
Politicians Join the Chorus for Accountability
Leaders from opposition parties, including the Congress and the Trinamool Congress, have slammed the ruling government for failing to ensure accountability within the police force.
“This is not merely a policing issue. It reflects deep systemic rot. We demand a transparent probe and justice for the victim,” said Congress leader Charles Pyngrope.
Previous Cases Raise Alarm
This incident is the latest in a series of complaints against Meghalaya police torture and custodial abuse.
Earlier this year, two men from West Jaintia Hills district alleged they were physically assaulted in police custody over a minor theft case.
Such repeated allegations have sparked fears of a culture of impunity within certain police units.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal experts warn that custodial torture violates not only fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution but also multiple international treaties signed by India.
“Victims have the right to compensation, medical care, and legal recourse,” said lawyer Anita Khongwir, a human rights advocate based in Shillong.
She urged the Meghalaya government to implement stricter protocols to prevent custodial violence.
A Call for Reforms
Amid the growing uproar, civil society groups are calling for reforms within the Meghalaya police force.
“There should be CCTV cameras in all lockups, mandatory medical checks for detainees. Further, fast-track courts for custodial torture cases,” said activist H. Rapsang.
Government Promises Action
The Meghalaya Home Department has promised thorough action, stating that no official will be spared if found guilty of torture.
Meanwhile, the teenager remains under medical care, trying to recover physically and emotionally from the traumatic experience.