The Supreme Court has ordered a CBI investigation and awarded ₹50 lakh compensation in a case involving alleged custodial torture of a Jammu and Kashmir Police constable. The bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta directed immediate arrest of the officers responsible for the abuse of constable Khursheed Ahmed Chauhan at Kupwara’s Joint Interrogation Centre in February 2023. The court also quashed an FIR against Chauhan for attempted suicide, calling it unjust given the torture allegations.
In its landmark judgment, the court mandated the CBI to complete its investigation within three months, including a probe into systemic issues at the interrogation center that may have enabled the abuse. The ruling emphasized the need to address institutional failures that foster custodial violence. Constable Chauhan had alleged horrific torture during six days of illegal detention, including mutilation of his private parts.
The ₹50 lakh compensation ordered by the court represents significant restitution for the violation of Chauhan’s fundamental rights. This decision reinforces constitutional protections against custodial violence and sets an important precedent for police accountability. The strict timelines for arrests and investigation completion demonstrate the court’s seriousness in addressing such human rights violations. (Source: Daily Excelsior)
