Police Custody Torture and Fake FIRs: A Continuing Concern

Dr.Thomas (Special Correspondent)

I have written about this issue many times before, yet it remains as relevant as ever. The problem of police custody torture and the registration of fake FIRs against innocent people continues unabated.

The irony is that victims often have no place to file a genuine complaint. Even if they register a case against the concerned police officers, no meaningful action is taken. Many of these accused officers continue to hold their posts without consequence.

Authorities such as the Police Complaint Authority and even the Lokayukta take years to deliver verdicts. In several cases of illegal custody, when someone requests CCTV footage from police stations, the footage is either denied or false excuses are given.

This raises a serious question: where can citizens go to complain against erring police officers?.

Despite facing serious allegations, many such officers are still promoted and enjoy privileges, often under the influence of their political “godfathers.”

This is not an isolated problem; many states across India face the same issues. It is imperative that all state governments actively monitor such corrupt and accused officers, and withhold their promotions and perks until they are cleared of the charges.