Rights group flags 8 custodial deaths in Tamil Nadu in 100 days

Madurai-based human rights organisation People's Watch has expressed concern over the increase in custodial deaths in Tamil Nadu during the first 100 days of the current administration. The organisation, known for its work on police accountability, has reported eight such cases since the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led government took office.

In a statement, the organisation's Executive Director Henri Tiphagne said three of these deaths were recorded in July alone. He also drew attention to the fact that TVK leader C. Joseph Vijay had publicly spoken out against police violence last year. However, the number of custodial deaths has risen since Mr. Vijay assumed the post of Chief Minister. The organisation did not provide comparative figures for previous periods, making it difficult to assess the trend independently.

Mr. Tiphagne expressed concern that several authorities, including the State Legal Services Authority, District Legal Services Authorities, State and District Police Complaints Authorities, and the Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), have remained silent on these cases. He described the situation as "dangerous for our society" and called for immediate attention.

The SHRC, he noted, has not taken suo motu cognisance of any recent custodial death cases since the new government came to power. In addition, two member positions in the SHRC and the post of Chairperson of the State Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are currently vacant. These vacancies, according to Mr. Tiphagne, further weaken oversight mechanisms.

Mr. Tiphagne has urged Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) to raise these issues during the debate on the police demand for grants, which is scheduled for September 3. The debate provides an opportunity for elected representatives to question the government on law and order matters and demand accountability.

Custodial death refers to the death of a person while in police custody or judicial custody. Such deaths are treated as serious human rights violations under Indian law. The National Human Rights Commission and state human rights commissions are empowered to take suo motu cognisance of these cases and order investigations. The absence of proactive action by the SHRC in the recent cases has been a point of concern for rights groups.

People's Watch has been active in documenting custodial violence and advocating for reforms in the criminal justice system. Its work includes monitoring police procedures, providing legal aid to victims, and pushing for transparency in custodial cases. The organisation's statement comes amid broader discussions on police accountability and human rights in Tamil Nadu.

The response from the government and the SHRC is awaited. The issue is expected to be taken up during the upcoming assembly session, with civil society groups hoping that the deaths will be investigated thoroughly and preventive measures will be put in place.