FIR registered against policemen after two-year battle
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet https://himachalscape.com/
Arki, May 18,
After a protracted struggle lasting over two years, a development has emerged in the custodial violence case in Arki. On 9 March and 10 March 2022, Rajendra Kumar, a resident of Arki, was allegedly assaulted and seriously injured while in police custody at the Arki Police Station. On Friday an FIR has finally been registered against the accused policemen, marking a crucial step towards justice.
The complaint, registered under FIR number 0038-2024, comes as a result of persistent efforts by Rajendra Kumar. Initially, his pleas for justice were submitted to the Arki Court and subsequently to the High Court. The lack of immediate action and the subsequent delays have only added to the distress experienced by Kumar and his family.
Rajendra Kumar invoked Section 156(3) of the Criminal Procedure Code, a legal provision allowing a magistrate to direct the police to investigate a cognizable offense when the police fail to register an FIR. This section has been a crucial tool for Kumar in his quest for justice, compelling the legal system to take notice of his plight.
The gravity of the allegations led to the FIR being lodged against former Station House Officer (SHO) Ram Lal, Head Constable Chuni Lal, and Constable Pradeep, all stationed at the Arki Police Station during the time of the incident. The charges include sections 325 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of the Indian Penal Code.
The investigation has been assigned to Superintendent of Police (SP) Dadlaghat, Sandeep Sharma, as directed by the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Solan on 22 April 2024.
In a press statement, Rajendra Kumar expressed his gratitude towards the High Court and the judges of the CJM Court in Solan for their support and intervention. “This step is a beacon of hope for many who suffer silently. I am thankful to the judiciary for upholding justice,” he stated.
As the investigation proceeds, it is imperative that it is conducted impartially and expeditiously to restore faith in the justice system.
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