Family of 26-year-old man allege custodial torture led to his death in Manamadurai
High tension prevailed at the Madurai Government Rajaji Hospital on Sunday after a 26-year-old youth, arrested in connection with an assault case, died in judicial custody.
The parents of the deceased have alleged brutal custodial torture and caste-based discrimination by the Manamadurai police.
The deceased, identified as Akash Delison , a graduate from Krishnarajapuram, was arrested alongside another youth, Guna , following a CCTV-recorded sickle attack on two individuals in Zion Nagar on Friday.
According to police sources, Akash sustained a fracture in his right leg after falling while attempting to evade arrest. Following a remand order by the Manamadurai Judicial Magistrate until March 18, he was admitted to the prisoners’ ward at the Madurai Government Rajaji Hospital for treatment. Authorities stated that Akash developed “breathing difficulties” early Sunday morning and passed away shortly after.
However, the youth’s parents, Rajesh Kannan and Anandhi, who spoke to reporters at the hospital, levelled grave accusations against the personnel of the Manamadurai police station.
The father alleged that the police took Akash to a secluded forested area under the guise of an investigation. “They placed stones on his legs and beat him until his bones shattered,” Rajesh Kannan told reporters.
The family further alleged that the police targeted Akash using casteist slurs during the assault.
The mother, Anandhi, claimed that police officials had previously threatened the family, stating, “If we get our hands on your son, we will kill him.”
The bereaved family has refused to accept Akash’s body, demanding the personal intervention of VCK Chief and MP Thol Thirumavalavan.