Custodial death in Tamil Nadu: Differently abled man's post-mortem shows injuries; three prison officials held
Three prison officials were arrested on Tuesday after the post-mortem of a 35-year-old remand prisoner revealed multiple injuries, turning what was initially described as a possible medical emergency into a custodial death investigation in Tamil Nadu's Kanniyakumari district.
The deceased, Sabari Varman, a differently abled grocery shop owner from Ethankadu near South Thamaraikulam, was arrested on July 9 after police alleged he was found in possession of banned gutka products. According to police, around 200 grams (15 packets) of the prohibited tobacco items were reportedly seized from his shop. He was produced before a magistrate, remanded to judicial custody, and lodged in the Nagercoil sub-jail.
On Tuesday, the police arrested chief warder Jegan, 47, and warders Sivakumar and Thiruvudai Nambi after the post-mortem examination reportedly revealed multiple injuries on Varman's body. The initial claim by jail authorities that Varman had died due to a medical emergency has now been questioned, and a detailed investigation is underway.
Varman's family has alleged foul play and demanded a thorough probe. The case has drawn attention to the conditions of undertrial prisoners and the accountability of prison staff in custodial deaths. The arrested officials have been charged with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and further inquiries are ongoing.
The state government has assured that action will be taken against those responsible. The incident highlights the need for stricter oversight in prisons to prevent such tragedies.
