Tipra Motha MLA Ranjit Debbarma has written to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and Tripura’s Director General of Police (DGP) demanding immediate action over a custodial death involving alleged police torture. In his letter, dated October 20, Debbarma called for the arrest of the Officer-In-Charge (OC) linked to the incident. The MLA also sought an in-depth investigation into several cases across the state where individuals in police custody reportedly did not receive proper medical treatment.
Debbarma’s letter comes after growing concerns regarding police conduct in Tripura. The custodial death that prompted his request has stirred public outrage, with allegations that the deceased was subjected to severe physical abuse while in custody. The MLA highlighted that such incidents not only reflect a failure of law enforcement but also violate basic human rights. He has urged both state and national human rights bodies to take swift and strict action to ensure justice.
The MLA’s letter includes a request for a comprehensive review of all cases in the past two months where detainees were allegedly denied adequate medical attention. Debbarma emphasized the importance of providing proper healthcare to those in custody, asserting that failing to do so could lead to unnecessary suffering and even death. He expressed grave concern that the denial of medical care could become a recurring issue if left unchecked.
This incident has put the spotlight on police practices in Tripura, with critics accusing law enforcement of not adhering to legal protocols. According to Debbarma, this custodial death is a clear violation of human rights, particularly the right to life and the right to be treated with dignity. He argued that police personnel must be held accountable for any illegal actions that occur within their jurisdiction, including abuse or negligence toward those in custody.
In his letter, Debbarma also stressed the need for an impartial inquiry into the conduct of the Officer-In-Charge and other officers involved in the case. He insisted that the inquiry should not only focus on this particular case but also on the broader issue of police treatment of detainees. According to Debbarma, it is essential to restore public trust in the state’s law enforcement agencies, and the only way to do that is by ensuring transparency and accountability.
The demand for the OC’s arrest is seen as a critical step in seeking justice for the victim’s family, who have been vocal in their calls for accountability. Family members of the deceased have accused the police of using excessive force, which allegedly led to the victim’s death. They are now demanding that the authorities take immediate action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Debbarma’s intervention has also drawn attention to the wider issue of police accountability in custodial cases. Human rights activists in Tripura have long been concerned about the treatment of detainees, especially in rural areas where access to legal representation and medical care can be limited. The MLA’s letter underscores these concerns, calling for a systematic review of police stations across the state to ensure that detainees’ rights are upheld.
The custodial death case has reignited a broader debate about the need for police reform in India, particularly in relation to the treatment of individuals in custody. Debbarma’s appeal to the NHRC and state officials reflects a growing recognition that law enforcement must adhere to both legal standards and human rights obligations. The MLA’s letter has already sparked public discussions in Tripura, with many citizens supporting his call for swift legal action.
As the NHRC and Tripura State Human Rights Commission review Debbarma’s request, pressure is mounting on local authorities to address the issue head-on. The MLA’s demands for accountability and justice have put the Tripura government in the spotlight, with many now waiting to see how the authorities will respond to these serious allegations.
For now, the focus remains on the legal and human rights implications of the custodial death and the potential fallout for those responsible. The coming days are expected to bring more clarity as investigations proceed and authorities take steps toward addressing Debbarma’s concerns.