The National Human Rights Commission on Friday issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh government over the death of a Dalit man allegedly in police custody in Amroha district, noting that it amounted to 'gross violation of human rights'.
Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports that the 30-year-old man died in police custody at the Dhanora Mandi police station on December 26, the NHRC issued notices to the state chief secretary and the director-general of police, seeking a detailed report in four weeks.
The rights panel sought an explanation on why it was not intimated about the death.
The Dalit man had been arrested in connection with a case of theft on December 23. His family members have alleged that police personnel asked for a bribe of Rs 5 lakh to let him off, which they could not arrange for and he was, therefore, 'tortured'.
The NHRC said the report from the UP government should also indicate whether any monetary and other relief have been provided to the family in accordance with the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and Rules.
The Dalit man's family members have alleged that he was picked up while they were returning home from a wedding. He was kept in the lock-up without any complaint and was tortured.
As many as 11 police personnel, including the SHO of the Dhanora Mandi police station, have been placed under suspension, the NHRC said in an official release.
