Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Friday ordered the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to probe the alleged custodial death of a man in Tumakuru district. The decision follows reports that the deceased, identified as 45-year-old Kantaraju, died while in police custody at Huliyar police station, sparking protests from local residents.
Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, HM Parameshwara said the exact cause of Kantaraju’s death remains unknown. “The death occurred during investigation on Thursday. However, we do not know the exact cause of the death. In this background, I have ordered a CID probe into the case,” he stated. He added that the investigation, including a post-mortem examination, will determine whether police assault played a role. “If the death has occurred due to assault, it will come to light… action will be initiated against the personnel concerned,” he said.
According to police, six individuals, including Kantaraju, had been brought to Huliyar police station after being found playing cards. During this period, Kantaraju reportedly collapsed and died. Enraged by the incident, villagers laid siege to the police station, locked its gates, and staged a protest, alleging that police assault caused his death.
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HM Parameshwara also addressed recent accidents involving minors in Hubballi, noting that young people often perform risky stunts, including bike wheeling and recording videos for social media. “Youth often indulge in bike stunts… some manage to evade police monitoring and end up in tragedies like this,” he said, adding that authorities are taking steps to educate young people about road safety and the dangers of such behaviour.
The CID has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive inquiry and submitting a detailed report. Authorities have assured that any culpability identified in the investigation will be met with appropriate legal action, aiming to restore public confidence in law enforcement operations in the district.
The incident has heightened tensions in Tumakuru, highlighting concerns over custodial safety and police accountability. Residents and civil society groups are closely monitoring the investigation as calls for transparency and justice continue to grow.
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