A Bihar-cadre IPS officer has been served a notice in connection with a custodial torture case involving a Deputy Speaker. The notice is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of custodial torture.
Introduction to the Case
A Bihar-cadre IPS officer, Sunil Naik, has been served a notice by the Andhra Pradesh Police. The notice requires him to appear for questioning in a case involving alleged custodial torture of Raghurama Krishna Raju, the current Deputy Speaker of Andhra Pradesh. This incident occurred in 2021 when Raju was an MP. At that time, the YSR Congress Party was in power.
Raghurama Krishna Raju filed a complaint last year against several police officers and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. The complaint alleged an attempt on his life during custody. Naik was serving as the DIG of the CID in Andhra Pradesh at the time. He was appointed to this position by the YSRCP government on deputation from Bihar.
After the BJP-Jana Sena alliance took over in Andhra Pradesh, Naik returned to Bihar. He is currently serving as the DIG of the fire services department there. The Prakasam district police issued the notice to Naik, asking him to appear at the Ongole SP office for questioning.
Background and Investigation
The alleged custodial torture took place at the Guntur CID regional office. Raju was arrested in Hyderabad and brought to this office. Naik was present during this process. The investigating officer, Prakasam SP A.R. Damodar, is leading the inquiry into Naik’s role in the incident.
In July 2024, an FIR was registered against several officials, including former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy and other IPS officers. The FIR was based on Raju’s complaint alleging an attempt on his life during police custody.
The case highlights concerns about custodial torture and the accountability of law enforcement officials. It also raises questions about political influence in such cases, given that the alleged incident occurred during the previous government’s tenure.
Implications and Public Response
The serving of notice to a high-ranking officer like Naik indicates a serious investigation into the allegations. It also reflects the ongoing efforts to address custodial torture cases in India. The public is keenly watching how this case unfolds, especially given the political implications.
As the investigation progresses, it will be crucial to see how Naik responds to the notice and whether he appears for questioning. The outcome of this case could set important precedents for similar allegations in the future.
Question to Readers: What measures do you think should be taken to prevent custodial torture and ensure accountability among law enforcement officials?
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