The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has confirmed that Gade Sai Krishna died in police custody following illegal detention and torture by Circle Inspector S Nagaraju. The findings highlight a grave miscarriage of justice, with the victim held unlawfully for three days without being produced before a magistrate.
Illegal Detention and Custodial Torture
Sai Krishna was illegally detained at Krishna Lanka police station from May 6 to May 8, 2026. During this period, he was not presented before a magistrate, violating legal procedures. The SIT report states that Circle Inspector S Nagaraju inflicted injuries leading to Sai Krishna's death while in custody. The exact cause of death was attributed to torture, with multiple injuries documented on the victim's body.
Evidence Suppression and Legal Failures
Critical aspects of the case remain unresolved, including the location of Sai Krishna's body, the involvement of other police personnel, and the destruction of evidence. The police misled the Andhra Pradesh High Court by claiming Sai Krishna's whereabouts were unknown, despite evidence suggesting his death in custody. The SIT noted that the police deliberately suppressed information, obstructing justice.
Public Pressure and Government Response
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government faced delays in arresting Nagaraju. However, after sustained protests from civil society and the victim's family, the government constituted the SIT to investigate. The SIT's findings have intensified demands for accountability and police reform in the state.
Key Statistics and Timeline
Sai Krishna was held in illegal detention for 72 hours, from May 6 to May 8, 2026. The SIT report was released after a thorough investigation, confirming the custodial torture and death. The case has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for strict action against the perpetrators and systemic changes to prevent such incidents.
