A tragic incident unfolded in Tirupati, where a young man named Akash Ram from Rapur mandal in Nellore district lost his life while undergoing treatment at a local hospital. This unfortunate event was preceded by his arrest and alleged custodial torture by the police in Tirupati. As a result of these serious allegations, a sub-inspector (SI) and a constable have been suspended pending further investigation. This article delves into the details of the incident and its aftermath, shedding light on the concerns raised by this case.
Source: The Quint
Allegations of Custodial Torture and Tragic Death
Akash Ram, a student at a private college in Nellore and a resident of Akkamambarapum in Rapur mandal, was reportedly subjected to torture during his three-day police custody. The victim’s family claims that the motive behind this mistreatment was Akash’s romantic involvement with a girl. The allegations of custodial torture have caused significant distress and outrage in the community.
Suicide Attempt and Outrage Spark Protests
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Akash resorted to consuming a harmful pesticide in front of the Sydapuram Police station, leading to his critical condition. News of this incident quickly spread, resulting in escalating tensions and prompting the victim’s relatives to stage a protest outside the Sydapuram Police Station. They demanded justice and immediate action against Sub-Inspector Naga Babu and the constables accused of torturing Akash. To maintain order, additional police forces were deployed to the Sydapuram police station.
Source: India Today
Investigation Initiated, Officers Suspended Pending Inquiry
According to Atmakur DSP Kota Reddy, Akash Ram, a man in his mid-20s, fell in love with a girl, and the couple had plans for marriage. However, the girl’s parents opposed their relationship and arranged her marriage to another man a year ago. In recent events, Akash and the girl eloped from their respective homes, which led to the girl’s husband filing a complaint with the Sydapuram police. During the course of the inquiry, the Sydapuram police called Akash for questioning. Unfortunately, while the investigation was still underway, Akash ingested a pesticide in front of the police station, claiming that he had been subjected to unbearable harassment by the authorities. He was immediately rushed to Gudur Hospital and later shifted to Tirupati SVIMS for further treatment.
Akash’s father, V Ankaiah, made serious allegations alleging that the Sydapuram police subjected his son to physical abuse and torture for three days while in custody.
In response to this distressing incident, a case has been registered against Sub-Inspector Naga Babu and Constable Veerabrahmam under sections pertaining to custodial death. Kavali DSP Venkata Ramana has been appointed as the investigative officer. Following a preliminary inquiry, SP Tirumaleswara Reddy made the decision to suspend the SI and the constable on Friday, pending a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Implications and Call for Accountability
The tragic death of Akash Ram raises significant concerns regarding custodial practices and underscores the urgent need for accountability within the police force. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding Akash’s untimely demise and provide justice for the victim and his grieving family. It emphasizes the necessity of fair treatment and due process, and the outcome of the investigation will play a crucial role in restoring public trust in law enforcement.
