The Jharkhand High Court on Thursday raised serious concerns over the absence of CCTV cameras in police stations across the state, directly questioning the Director General of Police (DGP) on the matter. The division bench, comprising Chief Justice M S Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar, was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated suo motu following a complaint of illegal detention and torture.
Court Warns of Contempt for Non-Compliance
The court noted that the chief secretary and home secretary of the state had previously been directed to ensure the installation of cameras in all police stations. The bench observed that these officials must take the court's orders seriously, warning that any failure to comply could result in contempt proceedings against them.
DGP Ordered to File Affidavit
The court directed the DGP to submit an affidavit detailing the current status of camera installation in police stations across Jharkhand. The case is scheduled for further hearing on June 27. Additionally, the court ordered a physical verification of the installed cameras to be conducted by the Jharkhand Legal Services Authority through the District Legal Services Authorities in all districts.
Background of the PIL
The PIL originated from a letter sent to the Chief Justice by Bhanumati Mahto, wife of Tarun Mahato, a candidate in the 2024 Assembly elections from the Ichagarh constituency in Seraikela. Mahato, a member of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha, was allegedly picked up by Ichagarh police on November 19, 2025, illegally detained, and brutally tortured at the police station. Bhanumati's letter detailed the illegal detention and torture, prompting the court to take suo motu cognizance.
Health Department Questioned
The court also questioned the principal secretary of the health department regarding action taken against the medical officer who examined Tarun Mahato when he was produced in court. Despite Mahato suffering severe injuries from alleged third-degree treatment, the medical officer issued a certificate declaring him "fit for custody."
