Amid mounting public anger over an alleged custodial death in Dhubri, Assam, Tamarhat Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Kapil Bora was sent to Dhubri District Jail late on October 8. He was produced before a Judicial Magistrate at night and entered the jail premises around 11:40 pm. The late-night proceedings have drawn sharp criticism from residents and legal experts, who questioned the secrecy surrounding the move.
The case is linked to the death of Monohar Roy, a resident of Mespara village, who succumbed to injuries early Wednesday that his family alleges resulted from police torture. Roy, along with two others—Rakesh Roy and Ganesh Roy—had been detained on September 28 in connection with a dispute over unpaid wages involving local contractor Habibul Sheikh. Villagers claim the three were brutally assaulted in custody before being released in critical condition. Roy’s condition worsened shortly afterward, leading to his death.
The incident has sparked widespread protests across Tamarhat, with demonstrators blocking roads and demanding swift action against those responsible. Local groups accuse the police administration of shielding the accused and attempting to calm tensions through behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Following public outrage, the deceased’s family lodged an FIR naming OC Kapil Bora and contractor Habibul Sheikh as accused. Initially, police sources stated that Bora had been placed under “reserved closed” status during an internal investigation. However, his sudden nighttime court appearance has intensified concerns about transparency and accountability within the force.
Civil society organisations and student unions have denounced the alleged custodial torture, calling it a grave violation of human rights. They have demanded a judicial probe to ensure an impartial investigation. With tensions still high, residents of Tamarhat continue to await decisive action from the authorities.
Assam Police Officer Jailed Over Alleged Custodial Death Sparks Protest
