The Goa State Human Rights Commission (GSHRC) has intervened in a case involving the death of a migrant worker from West Bengal, directing an immediate inquiry to rule out any foul play. The commission has issued notices to key officials, demanding a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the death of 36-year-old Debanand Sana.
Commission Takes Suo Motu Cognisance
Acting on its own initiative, the GSHRC stated it was taking suo motu cognisance of the case to ensure transparency. The primary objective is "to rule out any foul play in the death" of Sana, which occurred in late last month. The commission has formally called upon the South Goa magistrate and the Margao Superintendent of Police (SP) to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
Both authorities have been instructed to inquire into the incident and submit their findings by March 10. This move underscores the commission's proactive stance in addressing potential human rights violations within state institutions.
Allegations of Police Brutality
The case has taken a serious turn with allegations from the deceased's family. Debanand Sana, who worked as a mason in Vasco, was reportedly taken into police custody on suspicion of theft. His family has alleged that he was beaten to death while in custody.
Following the alleged incident in custody, Sana was admitted to the Goa Medical College (GMC). The family states they were informed he was first admitted to the Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour (IPHB) before being shifted to ward number 146 of the GMC, where he eventually breathed his last. Distraught by the events, the family has demanded an immediate probe against jail and police officials involved.
Path to Accountability
The commission's intervention highlights the critical issue of custodial and institutional deaths and the urgent need for accountability. By setting a strict deadline for the report, the GSHRC is applying pressure for a swift and impartial investigation. The outcome of this inquiry will be closely watched, as it touches upon the rights and safety of migrant workers and the protocols followed by law enforcement agencies.
The notice to the South Goa magistrate and the Margao SP sets a formal process in motion. Their reports, due on March 10, are expected to shed light on the sequence of events leading to Sana's death and determine whether procedural lapses or misconduct occurred.
