Madurai: Human rights organization People's Watch has called upon Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to introduce a special law targeting custodial torture. This appeal was made during the eighth anniversary of the police firing on anti-Sterlite protesters in Tuticorin on May 22.
Direct Responsibility of the Chief Minister
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Henri Tiphagne, Executive Director of People's Watch, emphasized that since the Chief Minister also oversees the Home Department portfolio, he bears a direct responsibility to reform the police force and ensure accountability. The organization specifically highlighted the eighth anniversary of the police firing, noting that despite three subsequent election cycles, the 16 lives lost and the affected families have yet to see complete justice.
Stalled Criminal Action
While the DMK government tabled the Justice Aruna Jagadeesan Commission of Inquiry report, People's Watch alleged that criminal action against the 21 indicted police and revenue officials has stalled. Tiphagne noted that several indicted officials have retired with full benefits, while departmental proceedings remain incomplete. He demanded the immediate registration of criminal cases and the withdrawal of cases against protesters by May 22. Additionally, he called for the establishment of exclusive special courts for custodial death trials and the enactment of a new state-specific law against custodial torture.
Demands for Compensation and Timely Justice
People's Watch further pressed for the immediate disbursement of pending compensation to 28 families who lost members to custodial violence. The organization insisted on a time-bound investigation and trial process to ensure a torture-free Tamil Nadu.
