- By Chetna Shree
- Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:19 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Tamil Nadu Custodial Death: The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court on Tuesday said that Ajith Kumar, the 28-year-old temple guard from Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga, who was accused of stealing women’s jewellery, was tortured and killed in police custody. The observations are based on the report submitted by a sessions court judge.
The Madras High Court questioned the handling of the case by the police and flagged possible destruction of evidence. The court earlier last week directed the CBI to appoint a team, begin inquiries within a week and submit the final report by August 20. The court also directed to CBI to probe the robbery allegations against Ajith Kumar. A woman named Nikhita accused Kumar of stealing her jewellery from her car while she was visiting the temple.
What Is The Case?
The case stems from a robbery complaint, in which Nikhita accused Ajith of stealing her jewellery. Soon after, local police detained Ajith Kumar for questioning on June 27. However, his family was informed about his death hours later. Initially, the police claimed that Ajith suffered an epileptic seizure while attempting to flee custody.
A video went viral on the internet in which the temple guard was seen being beaten with a stick. Five police officers were arrested for the fatal assault, and the district police chief and his deputy were also suspended.
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According to an autopsy report, severe injuries were reported on the forehead, arms, knees, feet and buttocks and excessive blood was accumulated within the brain. "44 injuries and more, actually, so this is torture. Still, people have the guts to say he died of epilepsy," Henri Tiphagne, human rights activist and the lawyer appearing for Ajith Kumar, said, as quoted by NDTV.
The judicial probe’s findings are expected to guide the next phase of the probe, introducing more details in the case. The case sparked a political row in Tamil Nadu. BJP and AIADMK heavily criticised the DMK government for failing to maintain law and order in the state.