Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has ordered a formal probe into the custodial death of a Muslim man that took place five years ago in a state jail. The renewed investigation follows persistent appeals from the victim’s family and rights organizations, who have long alleged foul play and negligence by prison authorities.
The deceased had been lodged in judicial custody under serious charges when he died under disputed circumstances. His family claimed he was subjected to abuse while in custody, and that the official explanation of natural death did not align with visible injuries on his body. Despite repeated requests for action, the case remained dormant until now.
The fresh inquiry will focus on whether jail officials violated procedural safeguards or failed to provide adequate medical care. Officials involved at the time are expected to be questioned. Human rights groups have welcomed the decision but stressed the need for transparency and timely disclosure of findings.
Activists have linked the case to the larger issue of custodial deaths in India, which continue to raise alarm among legal and minority communities. They have urged the state to establish independent monitoring mechanisms and ensure accountability within the prison system.
The victim’s family has expressed cautious optimism, saying they hope the probe will finally bring justice and expose the truth about his death.
