Delhi Police Denies Custodial Torture Allegations in Student Detention Case
In a significant development, Delhi Police on Friday firmly denied allegations of custodial torture and illegal detention involving students and activists who were arrested earlier this month. The police response came during a hearing at the Delhi High Court, where they addressed petitions filed by the kin of the detained individuals.
Background of the Case
According to the petitions, ten people—including six students from Delhi colleges, two labor rights activists, and two anti-displacement activists—were allegedly illegally detained by police between March 12 and 14. This prompted their family members to approach the court seeking relief. The police, however, countered these claims, stating that the allegations were fabricated to obstruct an ongoing investigation into suspected Maoist-linked activities.
Police Statement in Court
Before a bench comprising Justices Navin Chawla and Ravinder Dudeja, Delhi Police asserted that the protesters were called for "lawful questioning" in connection with an FIR registered in July 2025. This case relates to the raising of pro-Maoist slogans at India Gate. The police emphasized that their actions were part of a legitimate probe and denied any wrongdoing.
Details of the Petitions
The court is currently hearing several habeas corpus petitions filed by the relatives of the students and activists. One notable plea was submitted by the younger sister of Lakshita Rajoura, who alleged that Rajoura and other students were abducted and taken to an unmarked building in New Friends Colony by the police. Rajoura's counsel further claimed that in July last year, she was subjected to "grave sexual harassment" and "Islamophobic remarks" by an intoxicated inspector. Additionally, it was alleged that male students were beaten, and Rajoura was forced to sign blank papers and backdated notices.
Police Investigation and Allegations
Delhi Police clarified that their investigation pertained to a case involving the disappearance of a woman, referred to as 'Ms. V'. They stated that the trail led them to the students, whom they alleged were involved in brainwashing Ms. V with Maoist ideologies. The police claimed that questioning Rajoura and others helped locate the woman on March 14 this year. Furthermore, the police alleged that the activists were associated with organizations such as the Bhagat Singh Chatra Ekta Manch, which they described as a platform for anti-national, Naxalite content.
Police Denial of Wrongdoing
In response to the allegations, Delhi Police categorically denied any illegal detention, abduction, coercion, or torture. They stated, "The allegations are highly exaggerated, contradictory and devoid of any material proof." The police maintained that all procedures were followed lawfully and that the claims were baseless.
CCTV Footage Issue
Addressing the petitioner's demand for preserving CCTV footage, police confirmed that footage from the special cell office in New Friends Colony had been preserved. However, they noted that footage from specific locations in Vijay Nagar and Maurice Nagar were unavailable. The court expressed dissatisfaction over the non-functional CCTV cameras but proceeded to list the matter for further hearing on April 23.
Conclusion
This case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civil rights activists in Delhi. As the legal proceedings continue, the court's upcoming hearing on April 23 will be crucial in determining the veracity of the allegations and the police's conduct. Both sides remain steadfast in their positions, with the police defending their investigative actions and the petitioners seeking justice for alleged human rights violations.
