Frame compensation policy for police custody deaths: Hry rights panel

Chandigarh: Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has asked the state govt to frame a comprehensive compensation policy for deaths and torture in police custody, similar to the one applicable in cases of deaths occurring in judicial custody.The commission emphasised the need for institutional reforms and preventive safeguards to address custodial violence. It asked the Haryana Police to submit a detailed report on proposed reforms, safeguards and mechanisms aimed at preventing incidents of torture and deaths in police custody. The observations came during the hearing of a complaint filed by one Parvesh Sharma in connection with an alleged custodial misconduct. Advocate Deepanshu Bansal, appearing on behalf of the complainant through videoconferencing, informed the commission that although a disagreement-cum-showcause notice was issued to inspector Jagdish Chander (retd), the penalty imposed against the officer was not yet reconsidered as directed earlier. The commission noted that the state DGP submitted a report stating that disciplinary proceedings were initiated against the officer. However, it directed the police department to re-examine the penalty imposed and submit a fresh compliance report before the next date of hearing. The commission observed that a clear compensation framework for victims or their families in cases of deaths or torture in police custody should be developed on the lines of the policy governing deaths in judicial custody, ensuring accountability and relief for affected families. "Haryana already took progressive steps by framing a policy regarding the grant of compensation in cases of torture and deaths of prisoners confined in jails, which came into existence pursuant to the directions issued by this commission. It is expected that the state will similarly take the lead in framing a comprehensive policy providing for the grant of compensation in cases of human rights violations, including torture, illegal detention, injuries, deaths and other violations suffered during police custody," observed the HHRC member Deep Bhatia in his orders. The next hearing is on April 22. MSID:: 129503871 413 |