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Facing mounting public outrage and political pressure over the custodial death of 27-year-old Ajith Kumar in Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reached out to the deceased’s family over the phone assuring them of justice and promising strict action against those responsible.
In a video shared on social media by Chief Minister Stalin, Cooperation Minister KR Periyakaruppan is seen visiting the family at their home in Madapuram village near Thiruppuvanam. During the visit, the minister handed over a phone to Ajith Kumar’s mother, Malathi, and his brother, Naveen Kumar, so they could speak to the Chief Minister. “I am very sorry. Stay strong,” Stalin told them during the call.
Sharing the video of the conversation on social media, the CM said that “no one can justify this act” and “no one can escape with excuses.”
The CM also issued a press release stating that Sivaganga Superintendent of Police Ashish Rawat has been placed on compulsory wait, and Manamadurai Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Shanmugasundaram has been suspended.
The CM had also announced that the case will be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for an impartial inquiry.
“Since allegations have been made against five policemen, and to ensure there is no doubt cast on the probe, I have ordered the transfer of the investigation to the CBI,” he said.
“This police action is not at all pardonable. The government will ensure punishment for those who failed in their duty and committed the offence,” Stalin said. He further added that the state would provide full cooperation to the central agency.
He maintained that his government is committed to protecting human rights and preventing such incidents. “I have repeatedly urged the police that their actions must not violate human rights. Incidents like this must not be repeated under any circumstances,” he further said.
Ajith Kumar, a security guard at the Badrakaliamman Temple in Thiruppuvanam, died in police custody after allegedly being brutally assaulted. He was detained in connection with a theft case. A video of the assault has emerged. Five police personnel involved in the case have been arrested.
Meanwhile, the Madras High Court has also stepped in, with a division bench of Justices SM Subramaniam and AD Maria Clete ordering a judicial inquiry. IV Additional District Judge of Madurai, S John Sundarlal Suresh, has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation and submitting a report by July 8.
Ajith Kumar’s death marks the 24th alleged custodial death recorded in Tamil Nadu under the DMK regime, raising concerns about police excesses and accountability.