TGHRC summons Hyderabad police chief over alleged torture of minor

Hyderabad: After three days of illegal confinement marked by alleged torture, after repeated denials of basic rights including water, and after bypassing juvenile justice protocols – a Hyderabad teenager now faces life-altering paralysis, prompting the telangana Human Rights Commission(TGHRC) to demand answers from the city’s top cop. The commission has summoned the Hyderabad Police Commissioner to appear before it on August 12.

The TGHRC Chairperson Justice Shameem Akther issued the directive after the complainant, Daggupati Rambabu, alleged that his son Ajith Kumar Sharma was unlawfully held from December 15-17, 2024, by Jubilee Hills police in connection with a 'frivolous' complaint regarding a video alleged to have been recorded by him. During this period, the minor was allegedly denied basic amenities including water, subjected to third-degree methods, and not produced before the Juvenile Justice Board as mandated, said the complainant.

The Commission observed the victim’s ‘pathetic’ state, which included paralysis and worsened health. They noted that no police report was submitted despite a June 30 directive. So, the commission ordered NIMS Hospital to do an emergency medical evaluation within 48 hours and suggested hospitalisation if needed.

“In view of the nature of allegations which are grave in nature, and the condition of victim Daggupati Ajthi Kumar Sharma whose health appears to be deteriorating day by day, to meet the ends of justice, it has become essential to summon the Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad City, along with records, if any, on the next date of hearing, to enquire into the subject matter of the complaint. In case of failure on the part of the said officer to attend before this Commission as ordered, requisite action will be initiated against the officer concerned," read the order issued by TGHRC.