Human rights bodies probe alleged police torture of RSS worker in Jaipur

NHRC and SHRC have opened inquiries into the alleged custodial torture of RSS pracharak Krishna Avtar at a rural police station in Jaipur. Avtar told investigators he was stripped, beaten on his private parts and verbally insulted about his family and RSS affiliation, even being told the organization had harmed the nation. He lost consciousness and was later hospitalized, according to the FIR filed on Sunday. The NHRC issued notices to the Rajasthan Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, asking both to submit detailed action reports within two weeks. The DGP must explain the circumstances of Avtar’s arrest, the FIR, preservation of CCTV footage, and steps taken to protect the victim and witnesses. The Chief Secretary must ensure immediate medical care, protection, relief for Avtar and order an independent, time‑bound inquiry, while identifying administrative responsibility. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed strong displeasure at the "unruly behaviour" of some police officers and announced a zero‑tolerance policy. He ordered the removal or suspension of officers involved, resulting in one suspension, six officers placed on awaiting posting order and two removals, including officials linked to a separate mining‑lease dispute that led to the death of former BJP MLA Attar Singh Bhadana. The SHRC also sent a notice to the Inspector General of the Jaipur Range and other officials, demanding a compliance report by October 16.

Context

Custodial violence violates Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. Human rights commissions can direct inquiries and recommend corrective action when police misconduct is alleged.