Supreme Court Condemns Police Brutality, Upholds Life Sentence in Custodial Death Case

In Raghubir Singh v. State of Haryana, Court Emphasizes State’s Duty to Prevent Police Torture and Protect Human Rights

In a landmark judgment delivered on March 31, 1980, the Supreme Court of India upheld the conviction and life imprisonment of Raghubir Singh, an Assistant Sub-Inspector, for the custodial death of a suspect named Chhabila. The case arose from the brutal torture inflicted upon suspects during a theft investigation at a police post in Haryana, resulting in the death of Chhabila due to asphyxiation and severe physical abuse.

The Court, in a strong condemnation of police brutality, highlighted the grave violation of human rights committed under the guise of law enforcement. Medical evidence revealed that the deceased was subjected to severe flagellation, including torture on the soles of his feet, which rendered him unconscious before succumbing to death. The police attempt to disguise the killing as a suicidal hanging was categorically rejected by the Court.

Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer, delivering the judgment, expressed deep concern over the recurrence of custodial torture and the resulting erosion of public confidence in the police as protectors of law and order. The judgment underscored the vulnerability of human rights when violated by State authorities entrusted with safeguarding them. The Court warned that the continued existence of such police methodologies, often referred to as ‘third degree’ methods, would severely damage the credibility of the rule of law in India.

The Supreme Court called upon the State governments at the highest administrative and political levels to formulate and implement special strategies aimed at preventing and punishing police brutality. The Court’s observations serve as a stern reminder that the confidence and respect of citizens, once lost due to State excesses, are difficult to regain.

This judgment reinforces the constitutional guarantee under Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, ensuring equality before law and protection against arbitrary State actions. It marks a significant step in the judiciary’s efforts to uphold human rights and maintain the sanctity of lawful investigation procedures.

Statutory provisions

Constitution of India, Article 14; Indian Penal Code, Section 302

Raghubir Singh v. State of Haryana, (SC) : Law Finder Doc Id # 104476