Sivaganga: A shocking case of alleged police brutality has emerged in Madurai after a 32-year-old temple guard, Ajith Kumar, died following severe beatings while in custody. The incident has triggered violent protests, leading to the suspension of six police officers and a magistrate-led inquiry into the custodial death.
From Routine Questioning to Brutal Assault
Ajith Kumar, who worked as a security guard at Madapuram Kaliamman Temple in Thiruppuvanam, was taken in for questioning regarding a theft case. According to his brother, there was no formal complaint or FIR filed against Ajith. During interrogation, the police allegedly subjected him to relentless physical abuse, forcing him to kneel while officers beat him for hours.
His younger brother, who was also detained, claimed they were both tortured. “Seven policemen took turns beating us. They said they would keep hitting me until my brother confessed. But there was no theft—no evidence, no complaint,” the brother recounted, visibly shaken.
Hospital Death and Immediate Fallout
After losing consciousness in custody, Ajith was rushed to Sivaganga Government Hospital and later referred to a private facility in Madurai. Doctors declared him dead on arrival, citing severe internal injuries from sustained assault.
Enraged family members and locals laid siege to the police station, demanding justice. “How can they kill an innocent man taken only for questioning?” screamed one protester. Authorities responded by suspending six officers present during the interrogation. A magistrate inquiry, lasting over two hours, was conducted amid chaotic scenes outside Madurai Government Hospital, where Ajith’s autopsy was performed.
“Ajith was initially detained for questioning regarding a theft in a devotee’s car at Madapuram Kaliamman Temple, where he worked as a security guard. Six police officials have been suspended in connection with this, and an investigation is underway’ Sivaganga District SP Ashish Rawat said.
Family’s Harrowing Account: “They Used Him as a Bribe”
The victim’s family revealed disturbing details about the case’s origins. Ajith had reportedly helped park a disabled man’s car, as he didn’t know how to drive himself. An hour later, women in the area accused him of stealing jewellery from the vehicle—though no proof was ever presented.
“They treated my brother like a criminal reward,” the brother alleged. “They said, ‘We’re giving this man as a bribe,’ while beating him. There was never any case, just torture.”
The incident has reignited debates over police brutality and accountability in Tamil Nadu. While the suspended officers await further investigation, Ajith’s family continues to demand murder charges, refusing to accept mere suspensions as justice.
*(For custodial violence complaints, contact the Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission at 1800-425-9090.)*