![[Custodial Death Case] Gauhati HC Issues Notice to Assam Government in Dhing Rape Case](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/image-305.png?fit=820%2C456&ssl=1)
On Monday(16th Sept),The Gauhati High Court has addressed the custodial death of Tafazzul Islam, a 24-year-old gang rape suspect, by issuing notices to government officials. This action follows a petition from Abdul Awal, the deceased’s father, demanding a comprehensive investigation and compensation.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
GAUHATI: On Monday(16th Sept), The Gauhati High Court has taken steps regarding the tragic custodial death of Tafazzul Islam, a 24-year-old accused of gang rape. This incident has prompted serious concerns about police conduct and the judicial process in Assam. The court has issued notices to several government officials following a petition filed by Abdul Awal, the father of the deceased, seeking a thorough judicial investigation and compensation.
Background of the Case:
On August 22, a distressing incident occurred in Nagaon district, where a 14-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by three youths while returning home from tuition. Tafazzul Islam was arrested by local police on August 23, the day after the crime, from his residence near Dhing town. According to police reports, Islam tragically drowned while attempting to escape during a visit to the crime scene on August 24.
Abdul Awal’s petition highlights a critical aspect of this case: the potential for mistaken identity. Awal referenced a viral photograph that purportedly shows one of the accused, asserting-
“the police had mistakenly arrested my son.”
He emphasized that, although there was a similarity in names, the individual in the photograph does not represent his son.
The hearing concerning this case was conducted on Monday, with the High Court scheduling the next session for November 4. Abdul Awal’s demand for a judicial probe stems from his belief that his son suffered torture while in police custody. He has expressed deep concern over the lack of accountability, stating that his attempts to engage with the Nagaon district administration for an investigation into his son’s death have been met with silence.
Awal’s petition articulates the emotional turmoil faced by the family, as they have reportedly experienced threats aimed at deterring them from pursuing justice.
“We have been subjected to ongoing threats to deter us from raising our grievances, with warnings of severe consequences if we do.”
– Awal stated, highlighting the fear that has enveloped his family since the tragic incident.
In response to Awal’s petition, a division bench of the Gauhati High Court has issued notices to several key officials, including the state chief secretary, the principal secretary (Home), the District Commissioner of Nagaon, the Superintendent of Police, and the Officer in Charge of the Dhing Police Station.
These officials have been ordered to submit their responses by November 4.