Date:10/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/10/stories/2008081059510400.htm

New Delhi

Court directs FIR against policemen

New Delhi: Delhi police personnel who allegedly assaulted a man in their custody are in for trouble as a court has asked registration of an FIR against them stating that the charges pointed towards a case of custodial violence.

“The allegations as well as scenario before me lay out a case of criminal assault and intimidation besides other illegal activities. These acts cannot be part and parcel of anyone’s duty,” Metropolitan Magistrate Pulastya Parmachala said.

The court directed Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) to file a report on August 11 after registering the FIR against the policemen of IP Estate here as the victim burst into tears during his production before it.

“Accused (victim) burst into tears stating that he was given beatings with stick all over his body mercilessly near taxi stand at the side of Vikas Minar by the investigating officer and other accompanied police officials,” the court said. On being sought clarification by the court, the investigating officer Sub-Inspector Arjit Ram replied that he was not aware as to who had inflicted injuries on him.

“This is a lame excuse because custody of accused was given to him,” the court noted. –PTI