Man Dies After Falling Ill in Police Custody, Murder Case Filed Against Cousin

A day after 28-year-old Rajesh died following a sudden deterioration in his health while in police custody, authorities registered a murder case against his maternal cousin Raghuveer and others based on a complaint filed by Rajesh’s brother.

Rajesh had been taken to Dataganj police station for questioning after a clash between two groups during a community feast at Atsena village on Thursday. He was later booked for breach of peace.

According to police, Rajesh suddenly collapsed after returning from the bathroom at around 4 pm on Friday. He was taken to Dataganj Community Health Centre and later referred to Badaun district hospital, where he died during treatment.

Rajesh’s family has alleged that he died at the police station and accused authorities of failing to properly inform them about his condition. His last rites have since been performed.

Senior Superintendent of Police Ankita Sharma said a panel conducted the post-mortem and attributed the death to cardiac arrest. She said no injury marks were found on Rajesh’s body.

Police also cited CCTV footage showing Rajesh initially lying on the floor before sitting up and going to the bathroom. After returning, he collapsed, following which police personnel took him to hospital, Sharma said.

“The CCTV footage makes it clear that there was no assault or torture,” Sharma said, adding that an impartial inquiry would be conducted and action taken if anyone was found responsible.

Dataganj CHC doctor Ritesh Bhasin said Rajesh had been brought in with breathing difficulties and was in serious condition, but had no visible injuries.

The incident began with an argument over playing a DJ during the community feast. Both groups were taken to the police station, while an injured person from the other group was sent to hospital.

The murder case will now examine the dispute between Rajesh and Raghuveer and the circumstances surrounding Rajesh’s death.

with inputs from PTI