Calls for strict action on custodial abuse
Fifth Tamil Nadu Police Commission Highlights Custodial Reforms: The Fifth Tamil Nadu Police Commission has made bold recommendations to curb the growing concerns over custodial violence and prison deaths. The commission stressed firm disciplinary action against any form of abuse of power or physical brutality by police officials.
It directed internal mechanisms to swiftly act against incidents of verbal abuse, false case registration, biased investigations, and selective enforcement of laws.
Focus on humane policing
One of the key areas of reform suggested was ensuring dignity and safety of individuals held in custody. The commission has strictly discouraged the detention of women, children, those medically unfit, and individuals under the influence of alcohol in police stations.
These vulnerable categories are more prone to abuse, making their protection a high priority.
Static GK fact: The Supreme Court of India, in its 2014 judgment in Arnesh Kumar vs. State of Bihar, mandated police to avoid unnecessary arrests under Section 41A of the CrPC.
Supreme Court guidelines to be enforced
The commission has recommended strict compliance with the Arnesh Kumar guidelines to ensure that unnecessary arrests are minimized. This directive aims to check arbitrary use of police power and prevent avoidable custodial deaths.
Police must now justify arrests with recorded reasons, especially for offences punishable with imprisonment below 7 years.
Mandatory medical safeguards
The commission urged the compulsory medical examination of every individual taken into custody. Follow-up action must be taken based on the medical report, including hospitalization or refusal of detention if health issues are discovered.
This ensures transparency and acts as a deterrent against physical torture during custody.
Improving custodial safety
Another major recommendation was the deployment of adequate police staff to monitor each detained person. This is meant to prevent unattended incidents inside police stations and guarantee constant surveillance.
Static GK Tip: The Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) plays a vital role in monitoring human rights violations, including custodial deaths.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Topic | Detail |
| Commission Name | Fifth Tamil Nadu Police Commission |
| Key Concern | Custodial violence and prison deaths |
| Supreme Court Case Cited | Arnesh Kumar vs. State of Bihar (2014) |
| Focus Area | Police reform, accountability, humane custody |
| Vulnerable Groups Protected | Women, children, medically unfit, intoxicated persons |
| Medical Protocol | Mandatory exam for all detainees |
| Reform Mechanism | Internal probe and swift disciplinary action |
| Enforcement Support | Sufficient staff to monitor detainees |
| State Rights Body | Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission |
| Legal Reference | Section 41A of CrPC (Criminal Procedure Code) |
