Haryana Human Rights Commission Advocates for Police Custody Compensation Framework
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has issued a directive urging the state government to establish a comprehensive compensation policy specifically for incidents involving deaths and torture in police custody. This initiative aims to mirror the existing framework that governs compensation in cases of deaths occurring within judicial custody, ensuring a standardized approach to accountability and relief for victims and their families.
Emphasis on Institutional Reforms and Preventive Measures
During a recent hearing, the commission underscored the critical need for institutional reforms and the implementation of preventive safeguards to effectively address and mitigate custodial violence. It has formally requested the Haryana Police to submit a detailed report outlining proposed reforms, safeguards, and mechanisms designed to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
Case Background and Commission's Directives
The observations were made during the hearing of a complaint filed by Parvesh Sharma, which pertained to alleged custodial misconduct. Advocate Deepanshu Bansal, representing the complainant via videoconferencing, informed the commission that while a disagreement-cum-showcause notice had been issued to retired inspector Jagdish Chander, the penalty imposed against the officer had not been reconsidered as previously directed.
The commission noted that the state Director General of Police (DGP) had submitted a report confirming the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against the officer. However, it has directed the police department to re-examine the imposed penalty and submit a fresh compliance report before the next scheduled hearing on April 22.
Call for a Clear Compensation Framework
In its orders, the HHRC emphasized the development of a clear compensation framework for victims or their families in cases of deaths or torture in police custody. This framework should be modeled after the policy governing deaths in judicial custody, thereby ensuring accountability and providing timely relief to affected families.
Progressive Steps and Future Expectations
HHRC member Deep Bhatia highlighted that Haryana has already taken progressive steps by framing a policy for compensation in cases of torture and deaths of prisoners confined in jails, which was established following directions from the commission. He expressed expectation that the state will similarly take the lead in formulating a comprehensive policy to address human rights violations, including torture, illegal detention, injuries, deaths, and other abuses suffered during police custody.
The commission's proactive stance aims to foster a more transparent and just system, reinforcing the importance of human rights protections within law enforcement practices in Haryana.
