Advocate Asfak Ahammed, a prominent lawyer at the Calcutta High Court and Secretary of the Pradesh Congress Committee Minority Department, has made significant strides in addressing the tragic deaths of four individuals in custody at Baruipur Correctional Home. This series of incidents, which took place in South 24 Parganas, brought to light serious allegations of police brutality and custodial torture.
The Incident
In a span of ten days, Abdul Razzak, Ziaul Lashkar, Akbar Khan, and Saidul Munshi lost their lives while in judicial custody. Advocate Ahammed, upon hearing the news, took immediate action to ensure justice for the victims and their families. His efforts included documenting the conditions, collecting evidence, and liaising with political leaders and authorities.
Immediate Action and Advocacy
On August 5, Advocate Ahammed and a Congress leader met with the family of Ziaul Lashkar at the Kolkata Medical Hospital Morgue. Lashkar’s sister reported procedural lapses during the inquest, prompting further investigation. The following day, Advocate Ahammed and his legal team visited Akbar Khan’s family, gathering crucial documentation and media evidence.
Despite the police’s denial of the custodial deaths on social media, Advocate Ahammed’s persistence ensured that the incident gained coverage by credible news outlets like TheWire.in and The Quint.
Meeting with Authorities
Advocate Ahammed organized a meeting with South 24 Parganas District Magistrate Sumit Gupta, attended by the victims’ family members. During this meeting, the families demanded compensation, government jobs, and accountability for the police officers involved. The District Magistrate, acknowledging the severity of the situation, assured them of compensation, jobs, and a high-level investigation. Subsequently, each family received a compensation check of 5 lakh rupees.
Documented Cases
The detailed accounts of the deceased highlighted the extent of the alleged police brutality:
– *Ziaul Lashkar*: An auto driver, tortured and died on August 2.
– *Abdul Razzak*: A poultry business owner, arrested on July 24, tortured, and died on July 30.
– *Akbar Khan*: Another robbery case accused, died on August 2 with visible torture marks.
– *Saidul Munsi*: Arrested on July 25, died on August 3 from alleged continuous torture.
Legal Assistance and Ongoing Efforts
On August 7, Advocate Ahammed and his team met the families, offering legal support. Despite initial police claims of coincidence, Advocate Ahammed’s relentless pursuit led to a CID preliminary inquiry ordered by the DGP of West Bengal. This investigation aims to uncover the truth behind these custodial deaths.
Recognition and Future Steps
Advocate Asfak Ahammed’s efforts have been pivotal in seeking justice for the victims of custodial violence. His commitment to human rights and legal advocacy exemplifies his dedication to upholding justice and accountability.
This achievement underscores Advocate Ahammed’s unwavering resolve to fight for the oppressed and ensure that justice prevails, setting a benchmark for legal activism and humanitarian efforts.