Custodial Death in Jharkhand: NHRC Notice on the Death of Arjun Saav

 Custodial deaths continue to expose deep cracks in India’s justice system. The recent intervention of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Jharkhand highlights both the tragedy of state neglect and the urgent need for reform.

The Case of Arjun Saav

On 13 April 2022, Arjun Saav (55), a resident of Domchanch in Koderma district, lost his life under highly suspicious circumstances during a police raid linked to illegal mica smuggling.

Villagers allege that Saav was taken into custody by the Domchanch police, brutally assaulted with iron rods in a nearby forest, and later found dead in the Ambadah jungle. His family and villagers staged a protest, blocking the road with his body to demand justice.

Following his son’s complaint, an FIR (No. 39/2022) was registered under sections 302/201/34 IPC, naming the police station in-charge and other personnel as accused. The officials were suspended, and the case was handed over to a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Post-Mortem and Inquiry Findings

The post-mortem revealed frothy discharge from the nostrils and abrasions near the forehead and eye. While the official cause of death was listed as cardio-respiratory arrest, the Magistrate’s inquiry found serious procedural lapses — including the fact that the raid was conducted without a competent officer present.

The NHRC’s Investigation Division ultimately described the death as “suspicious”, noting that multiple lapses on the part of the police could not be ignored.

NHRC’s Intervention

Taking cognizance on 25 April 2022, the NHRC issued notices to the Jharkhand authorities. After reviewing the investigation report of 26 November 2024, the Commission concluded:

  • The custodial death occurred under suspicious circumstances.

  • An FIR had already been registered against the police officials involved.

  • The Executive Magistrate’s report confirmed serious procedural lapses.

Accordingly, on 7 May 2025, the NHRC issued a show cause notice to the Chief Secretary, Government of Jharkhand, asking why:

  1. Compensation of ₹5,00,000 should not be paid to the family of the deceased, and

  2. A status report of the ongoing investigation should not be submitted within four weeks.

Why It Matters

This case underscores a fundamental truth: the State is responsible for the safety of every individual in custody. Custodial deaths are not isolated tragedies — they reveal systemic neglect, lack of accountability, and entrenched impunity within policing structures.

The NHRC’s intervention, prompted by the efforts of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), is a reminder that families of victims deserve justice — and that the State must be held accountable for violations of fundamental rights.

News in Junputh: https://junputh.com/voices/nhrc-notice-to-governments-of-odisha-and-jharkhand-on-custodial-deaths/

Link for details: https://www.scribd.com/document/915483693/Custodial-Death-in-Jharkhand-NHRC-Notice-on-the-Death-of-Arjun-Saav


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