Madurai: The body of Akash Delison, 26, who allegedly died after custodial torture by Manamadurai police on March 8, was cremated on Wednesday after the Madras high court directed officials to ensure dignified disposal of his remains.
Family's Refusal and Court Intervention
Akash's family had refused to receive the body for more than three months, demanding action over his death. The body had been kept at the mortuary of Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai. Following the high court order, authorities proceeded with the cremation.
Security and Protests
Madurai district authorities shifted the body to the Thathaneri cremation yard amid tight security. Family members and supporters protested near the mortuary when officials arrived to move the body. The family said they wanted to appeal against the court order and sought more time before cremation. Officials told them the court direction had to be implemented.
Police detained 14 people who allegedly tried to prevent officials from taking the body out of the mortuary. Akash's parents, sister and uncle were taken to the cremation yard.
High Court Order
The Madurai bench of the Madras high court had passed the order on Tuesday, directing authorities to take immediate steps for disposal of the body. The court also directed CB-CID to expedite the probe and file its final report before the appropriate court.
Case Background
Akash was picked up by Manamadurai police in connection with an assault case and died on March 8. The case, initially registered under BNSS provisions for inquiry into custodial death, was transferred to CB-CID and later altered to include murder under Section 103 of BNS and provisions of the SC/ST Act.
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