Ghaziabad Custodial Death Sparks Outrage: Family Alleges Police Cover-Up
The death of a 35-year-old man in Ghaziabad has erupted into a major controversy, with his family accusing police of "cooking up" an accident narrative to conceal what they claim was custodial torture. Amit Chaudhary, a contractual worker at the Nagar Panchayat, died on Sunday night at a hospital, leaving behind a trail of conflicting accounts and mounting public scrutiny.
Police Version: Escape Attempt Leads to Tragic Accident
According to official police statements, the incident occurred in Niwari when Chaudhary broke free from police custody at a community health centre. Authorities claim he sprinted toward the main road with constables in pursuit, only to be struck by a passing truck. This version of events has been met with skepticism and outright rejection by the victim's family.
Family's Allegations: Custodial Torture and Fabricated Story
Chaudhary's father, Subhash, has come forward with a dramatically different account. He alleges his son had no criminal record and was forcibly taken into custody following a heated argument with police officers on April 7.
Subhash detailed the sequence of events:
- Around 10 PM on April 7, Chaudhary was sitting outside their home when two policemen arrived on a motorcycle
- A verbal altercation escalated, prompting the officers to call for backup
- Chaudhary was taken to the police station without family notification
- The family learned of the incident hours later when a neighbor called about Chaudhary's hospitalization
"When we reached the hospital, we learnt he was beaten up at the police station," Subhash alleged, directly contradicting the police narrative of a simple traffic accident.
Official Response and Investigation
In response to the growing controversy, authorities have taken several actions:
- An FIR has been registered against unidentified police officers under Section 109(1) (attempt to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
- Four police personnel have been suspended for negligence: sub-inspectors Lokendra Chaudhary and Shahid Khan, head constable Sachin Mohan, and constable Narendra
- A separate investigation is underway to locate and take action against the truck driver under BNS provisions for causing death by negligence
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rural) confirmed that a thorough investigation against the suspended officers is currently in progress. A special team has been formed to apprehend the truck driver, whose involvement remains a critical aspect of the official investigation.
Broader Implications and Community Response
This incident has raised serious questions about police conduct and accountability in Ghaziabad. The conflicting narratives have created significant tension between law enforcement and the local community, with many residents expressing support for the grieving family.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about custodial procedures and transparency in police operations. As investigations continue, authorities face mounting pressure to provide clear answers and ensure justice is served in this tragic case that has captured public attention across the region.
