Make uniform rules: Patil
Embarrassed by the maximum number of custodial deaths in the state, the Maharashtra government wants uniformity in the criteria that defines custodial deaths across the country. The state home department has written to the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) suggesting the change. If it is not done, the state is likely to change its own criteria to avoid further embarrassment.
Custodial deaths in Maharashtra were high as compared to other states. In 2011, Maharashtra registered a record number of custodial deaths at 35. The number was the highest in the last decade, as per the statistics available with the NCRB. In 2012 again, Maharashtra left behind all the states with 24 custodial deaths.
Upset with the furore over the numbers, the state home department has written to the NCRB to initiate steps to make the criteria across the country uniform to define custodial deaths.
“We want the criteria defining custodial deaths equal in nature in all the states as there is a huge difference between Maharashtra and other states in this regard,” home minister R.R. Patil confirmed.
In Maharashtra, when a person dies in police custody, if it is a natural death or death due to prolonged illness or even by a heart attack, a case of custodial death is registered. Also, a Crime Investigation Department (CID) probe is initiated to ensure that the death was not due to torture, which is not the case in other states.
Mr Patil argued that though the statistics show the highest number of custodial deaths in the state, his concern was to ensure no injustice was done to anyone, even an accused. “As a result, Maharashtra always registers higher number of custodial deaths. But, now the state wanted change in the situation,” said Mr Patil.
Consequently, the NCRB was asked to ensure uniform criteria for custodial deaths. If nothing was done on their part, the state has to consider changing its own criteria to bring down the numbers.
“We have asked the NCRB that the criteria for custodial deaths be the same. If it is done then the scenario will change completely. If the NCRB doesn’t take our request seriously, then we will be left with no choice, but to rethink on changing our own criteria. Hence, opinions have been sought from senior police officers in this matter,” the home minister asserted.
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