HHRC Orders High-Level Probe into Alleged Police Custodial Torture and Extortion
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint alleging serious human rights violations by officials of the Government Railway Police (GRP) station in Ambala Cantonment. The complaint includes accusations of illegal detention, custodial torture, physical assault, humiliation, extortion, criminal intimidation, and abuse of official authority.
The Commission has recommended that the matter be investigated through a high-level inquiry. The complainant, a businessman dealing in silver articles who frequently travels between Delhi and Punjab, alleged that he was summoned to the GRP police station on June 20 for questioning despite no First Information Report (FIR), complaint, or incriminating material against him.
According to the complaint, he was called in connection with a theft of gold in another coach of the train he was travelling on. He fully cooperated with the investigation, but was unlawfully detained and subjected to severe custodial torture, including being stripped, videographed naked, and threatened with false implication unless he paid ₹10 lakh. He also alleged that his mother was denied access and his mobile phone was seized.
In an order dated July 1, HHRC Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra observed that the allegations, if proven, reveal a disturbing account of custodial violence, illegal detention, abuse of police powers, and violation of individual dignity. He noted that custodial violence is one of the gravest forms of human rights abuse, as it is allegedly committed by public officials entrusted to protect citizens' lives, liberty, and dignity.
The Commission cited Articles 21 and 22 of the Constitution, which guarantee protection of life, personal liberty, and legal rights. It also referred to the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, which obligates the Commission to inquire into allegations of human rights violations by public servants. Two landmark Supreme Court judgments were referenced, holding that custodial violence strikes at the rule of law and violates constitutional guarantees.
The HHRC directed the Director General of Police, Haryana, to ensure the inquiry is conducted by an officer not below the rank of Inspector General of Police (IGP). The inquiry shall examine allegations of illegal detention, custodial torture, threats, and coercion, and shall preserve CCTV footage from the GRP police station for June 20. If allegations are found true, responsibility shall be fixed, and an Action Taken Report submitted before the next hearing.
