Inspector among Four police personnel suspended in Darshan custodial death case
Bengaluru: The custodial death of 26-year-old Darshan has led to major action within the city police force, with Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh ordering the suspension of four officers, including Vivekanagar Police Station Inspector Shivakumar.
The decision comes after departmental investigations confirmed serious lapses in the handling of the case. According to the complaint filed by Darshan’s family, the youth was picked up by the Vivekanagar police on November 12 after allegedly assaulting police personnel while under the influence of alcohol.
However, instead of registering a proper case, officers reportedly kept him in illegal custody for two to three days and subjected him to severe physical assault using lathis and pipes.
As Darshan’s condition worsened, he was shifted to Unity Rehab Centre in Nelamangala, where he was admitted without disclosing the alleged custodial torture. Within 10 days of admission, Darshan succumbed to his injuries. His parents alleged that both the police and the rehab centre were responsible for concealing the torture and failing to provide timely medical care.
Following the family’s complaint, a case of murder and atrocity offences was registered at Madanayakanahalli Police Station against the suspended officers and the owner of the rehab centre. The incident sparked outrage, prompting senior officials to initiate a departmental inquiry.
Acting on the inquiry findings, the Police Commissioner suspended Inspector Shivakumar and three other personnel, while CCB Inspector Viresh has been posted to replace Shivakumar.
The custodial death case has now been officially transferred to the CID for a detailed investigation. Meanwhile, Darshan’s post-mortem examination has been completed and the body handed over to his family.
Senior police officers from the Central Division have also sought a comprehensive report to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.
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