16-April-2024-Special-Article

STRICTER VIEW NEEDED IN CUSTODIAL DEATH CASES 

Custodial death, the tragic demise of an individual under the watch of law enforcement or correctional facilities, remains a pressing issue in India. This phenomenon raises concerns about human rights violations, abuse of power, and the need for legal reforms to ensure justice and accountability. 

About Custodial Death 

• Definition: Death occurring when an individual is in the custody of law enforcement or correctional facilities. 
• Causes: Excessive force, neglect, abuse, or incidental factors. 

Types: 

• Police Custody: Due to excessive force, torture, or denial of medical care. 
• Judicial Custody: Overcrowding, poor hygiene, lack of medical facilities, or inmate violence. 
• Army/Paramilitary Custody: Torture or extrajudicial killings. 

Why is Restricting Custodial Deaths Necessary? 

• Human Rights Violation: Contradicts the right to fair treatment and protection from torture. 
• International Obligations: India’s commitment to the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT). 
• Extradition Challenges: Hinders extradition proceedings for economic offenders, e.g., Vijay Mallya. 
• Mental Health Impact: Traumatic experiences can lead to severe psychological distress. 

Constitutional and Legal Safeguards 

Constitutional Provisions: 

• Article 21: Right to life and personal liberty, includes protection from torture. 
• Article 20: Protection against arbitrary punishment, double jeopardy, and self-incrimination. 
• Selvi v. State of Karnataka: Consent required for narco-analysis, polygraph, and brain-mapping tests. 

Legal Protections: 

• Section 24, Indian Evidence Act: Confessions under threat are inadmissible. 
• Sections 330 and 331, IPC: Criminalize causing hurt or grievous hurt for extracting confession. 
• Section 41, CrPC: Safeguards for transparent arrests, protection, and legal representation. 

International Conventions Against Custodial Torture 

• International Human Rights Law, 1948: Protection against torture and enforced disappearances. 
• United Nations Charter, 1945: Dignified treatment of prisoners, respecting fundamental freedoms. 
• Nelson Mandela Rules, 2015: Prohibition of torture and ill-treatment. 
• UNCAT: Global treaty to prevent torture and inhuman treatment. 

Measures to Combat Custodial Torture 

Strengthening Legal Systems: 

• Enact Comprehensive Legislation: Criminalize custodial torture as directed in Prakash Singh Case 2006. 
• Separate Investigation and Law and Order: Improve policing, establish State Security Commissions (SSC), and a National Security Commission. 

Police Reforms and Sensitization: 

• Enhanced Training: Emphasize human rights, professionalism, and empathy. 
• Culture of Accountability: Promote transparency and accountability in law enforcement. 
• Oversight Mechanisms: Monitor and address custodial torture cases effectively. 

Empowering Civil Society and Human Rights Organizations: 

• Active Advocacy: Civil society organizations should advocate for victims of custodial torture. 
• NHRC Expansion: Extend jurisdiction to cases of human rights violations by armed forces and allow inquiries even after a year. 

• Legal Assistance: Provide support and legal aid to victims and families. 

Collaboration with International Bodies: 

• Seek Redress and Justice: Collaborate with global human rights bodies and organizations to address custodial torture cases effectively. 

Mains Question: 

1. Discuss the significance of strengthening legal frameworks and implementing police reforms to address custodial deaths in India. (150 WORDS)