MPHRC orders registering of murder case against 4 cops

Bhopal, May 4 (UNI) The Madhya Pradesh Human Rights Commission (MPHRC) has directed the state government to register a murder case against four police personnel for fatally injuring a man at Sehore district's Ichhawar Police Station and provide interim relief of Rs 1 lakh to the affected family.

The MPHRC found Head Constable Maheshchandra Yadav, constables Omprakash, Gajraj Singh and Jamuna Prasad prima facie guilty and directed that a charge-sheet be submitted in a competent court.

Commission sources said that the police action was deemed ''inhuman'' and the Department recommended to order an inquiry. The MPHRC said that the family should be provided legal aid.

On June 22, 2000, Babulal Adivasi was taken into custody for different offences. That afternoon, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate ordered his release on bail. Adivasi's health deteriorated and he was admitted to the Hamidia Hospital where he told doctors that he was beaten in custody. Adivasi died on June 28, 2000. Postmorten revealed assault and injury to vital organs.

Police and magisterial probes followed but the case was closed.

The MPHRC ordered an independent inquiry by a Deputy Superintendent and Adivasi's arrest was found to be illegal.

UNI