Cop killed man in custody: Family

Police say thief was beaten up by public

A 31-year-old man arrested in south-west Delhi on charges of theft last week was found dead on the same day.

His family members now allege he succumbed to his injuries after being beaten up by a constable. Delhi Police have agreed to a magisterial inquiry over the matter.

The man has been identified as Amit Kumar, a resident of Nand Nagari.

He was handed over to Dabri police station after being apprehended by locals after a theft on last Saturday.

Senior police officials deny family’s allegations.

According to Anil Kumar Ojha, additional commissioner of police (south-west), Amit was found injured and reported to have been beaten by the public.

“He was immediately sent to Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital with constable Ram Niwas,” Ojha added.

After a preliminary examination, Amit was referred to a orthopaedic doctor for further examination and treatment. After the treatment he was discharged on the same day with advise to attend Ortho OPD on September 17.

 “As no cognisable offence was made out, he was released from the hospital,” Ojha said.
On the same day, a body was found lying near Janak Cinema at Dabri More. It was however not identified, so the investigating officer completed all due formalities.

On Monday, Amit’s family approached Dabri police station reporting that he was missing.
His brother-in-law Sunil Kumar’s statement was recorded and an investigation taken up.

“During the efforts to trace Amit, it was found that the body found at Dabri More was connected. Accordingly, his family members were informed immediately,” Ojha added.

Now, his brother Ajit Kumar and brother-in-law Satish Kumar allege foul play and suspect that constable Ram Niwas is instrumental in his death.

Hence, the additional chief metropolitan magistrate of Dwarka has been requested for conducting an inquiry under section 176 of the CrPC.

“Further action will be taken as per the judicial inquiry report,” Ojha said.