NHRC Notice To Govt, DGP In Auto Driver's Death

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today issued notices to the Telangana State government and its Director General of Police over the death of a youth named Mohammed Irfan under the Rajendranagar police station limits.

The NHRC took cognizance of media reports alleging that Irfan died due to police torture, and sought a detailed report on the incident within two weeks.

The Commission stated that if the media reports were found to be true, it would amount to a serious violation of the victim's human rights.

Mohammed Irfan (35), a resident of Tolichowki in Hyderabad, earned his livelihood as an auto-rickshaw driver. He was married to two women. The incident reportedly stemmed from domestic issues, as his second wife confronted him after discovering that he was in a close relationship with another woman. Frequent quarrels erupted between them over the matter.

On May 13, a family panchayat was convened in the presence of elders to resolve the dispute. When it failed, both parties approached the Rajendranagar police station. During the process, Irfan's wives filed a complaint against him. The police took Irfan inside for counselling and later let him go. Shortly afterward, Irfan collapsed.

He was immediately rushed to Osmania General Hospital by family members, where he died while undergoing treatment.

Irfan's brother alleged that he died as a result of police beatings - an allegation denied by the police.

Following media reports claiming that Irfan died due to police torture, the NHRC registered a suo moto case and issued the notices.