Inmate's Death at Buxar Central Jail Triggers Protests and Allegations
Tension erupted on the campus of the sadar hospital in Buxar on Friday following the death of a 32-year-old inmate from Buxar Central Jail under circumstances that have raised serious suspicions. Family members of the deceased have leveled allegations of foul play, accusing the jail administration and local police of collusion. They claim that visible injury marks were present on the body, fueling their demands for a thorough investigation.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
The deceased has been identified as Rajendra Prasad, 32, son of Kedar Singh and a resident of Jail Pin Road. He was arrested on February 12 on charges related to liquor sale and subsequently lodged in Buxar Central Jail. According to jail authorities, his health began to deteriorate while in custody, leading to his admission to the prison hospital ward for medical attention.
On Friday morning, at approximately 7 am, his condition reportedly worsened, culminating in his death. This sudden turn of events has left family members in shock and disbelief, prompting immediate action.
Family Protests and Allegations of Collusion
Upon reaching the hospital, relatives of Rajendra Prasad staged a vehement protest, expressing outrage over the circumstances surrounding his death. They asserted that he was in normal health when they last met him just two days prior, casting doubt on the official narrative provided by jail officials.
The protest persisted for nearly two hours as family members refused to back down, demanding accountability and transparency. They specifically alleged collusion between the jail administration and police, pointing to the visible injury marks as evidence of potential mistreatment or negligence.
Official Responses and Investigation Plans
In response to the escalating situation, the jail superintendent stated that a prima facie cause of death appeared to be a heart attack, but emphasized that a formal report is still awaited to confirm this. Meanwhile, the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) announced that a dedicated team would be assembled to investigate the allegations thoroughly. Action will be taken based on the findings of the departmental report, ensuring due process is followed.
After officials managed to persuade the family, they agreed to allow a post-mortem examination to be conducted. However, tensions flared again later when the family blocked a major road for over two hours, further highlighting their frustration and demand for justice.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
This incident has not only sparked immediate protests but also raised broader concerns about the treatment of inmates and the accountability of custodial authorities in Buxar. The allegations of foul play and collusion have resonated within the community, prompting calls for systemic reforms to prevent such occurrences in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on the authorities to deliver a transparent and impartial report. The outcome will likely influence public trust and could lead to significant changes in how similar cases are handled moving forward.
