Total of 4685 custodial deaths in past three years

New Delhi, Aug 02 (UNI) As many as 4685 custodial deaths -- in judicial and police custody -- were reported to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) during the last three years, including 1730 deaths in 2005-06 itself, the government said today.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Home S P Jaiswal said that during 2003-04, 1462 custodial deaths were reported while the figures stood at 1493 in 2004-05.

The Minister said 'Police' and 'Public Order' are State subjects.

However, the NHRC had awarded compensation of Rs 24,65,000 in custodial death cases during April 2003-March 2006.

Replying to another query, he said the directions given by the Supreme Court in the D K Basu vs State of West Bengal case on arrest, detention and use of third degree methods had been circulated to all the state governments and UTs for appropriate action and compliance.

As part of measures to prevent custodial deaths, he said CCTVs had been installed in all the police stations to have a better supervision.

Instructions have been issued to all concrened not to keep drunkards, drug addicts, sick and injured people at police stations.

He said strict action was taken against police personnel found guilty of using third degree methods.

Another measure is earmarking separate areas, known as "Sankraman Kaksha", in all police stations for interrogation of suspects. It is located in the vicinity of the Reporting Room and SHO's Room.

Investigating Officers (IOs) have been directed to examine suspects and witnesses in 'Sankraman Kaksha' only.

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