Madras High Court Orders Probe in Sivaganga Custodial Death

Madurai, July 1 (PTI) - The Madras High Court has taken a pivotal step in the Sivaganga custodial death case, appointing an Enquiry Officer and sanctioning a CB-CID investigation.

The death of 29-year-old Ajithkumar, detained in connection with a theft complaint, has triggered widespread outrage across Tamil Nadu.

Advocate Henry Tiphagne, who presented the case at the Madurai High Court bench, announced that the court has appointed Madurai 4th Additional Sessions Judge, John Sunderlal Suresh, as the Enquiry Officer.

"All relevant files and evidence should be handed over to him within 2-3 days. He is expected to submit his report by July 8," stated Tiphagne, who is also known for his role as a social activist.

Furthermore, the court has permitted the CB-CID to investigate the situation, with the agency set to submit a status report in due course. The investigation was transferred to the CB-CID earlier in the day, Tiphagne added.

The government informed the court that the official involved, operating under the Manamadurai DSP's "special team," has been suspended. Tiphagne shared this development with the press.

During court proceedings, it was underscored that the "special team" apprehended Ajithkumar without registering an FIR, subjecting him to beatings across various locations under the guise of an inquiry. At a final location, a cowshed associated with a temple in Madappuram, Sivaganga, he was allegedly beaten with pipes and sticks.

Chillingly, chili powder was reportedly thrown into Ajithkumar's eyes and mouth, Tiphagne claimed.

The victim's family has pursued justice, filing a writ petition with the High Court seeking the registration of a murder case related to the incident.

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