Death Penalty to 9 Policemen – In a significant judgment, the Madurai First Additional District and Sessions Court sentenced nine policemen to death for the custodial torture and deaths of Jeyaraj (59) and his son Beniks (31) in 2020.
The convicted include Inspector S. Sridhar, Sub-Inspectors P. Ragu Ganesh and K. Balakrishnan, Head Constables S. Murugan and A. Samidurai, and Constables M. Muthuraja, S. Veil Muthu, S. Chelladurai, and X. Thomas Francis.
The case, which triggered nationwide outrage, has come to symbolize the urgent need for police reforms and accountability in India.
Key Facts of the Case
- Incident took place in Sathankulam, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu
- Jeyaraj was detained on June 19, 2020, for alleged COVID-19 violations
- Beniks was arrested after questioning police action
- Both were brutally tortured in custody overnight
- Beniks died on June 22; Jeyaraj died on June 23
- Investigation later found the initial case to be baseless
Investigation and Testimony
A crucial turning point came when a woman constable testified about the custodial torture.
Evidence revealed severe physical assault, with multiple injuries on both victims.
The brutality and alleged misuse of authority led to widespread protests and demands for justice across the country.
The Verdict and Its Impact
The court held all nine accused guilty of murder, awarding the death penalty in what is seen as a rare and strong judicial stance against custodial violence.
The victims’ family welcomed the verdict, expressing hope that it would deter future abuses of power.
The judgment reinforces the principle that no individual, including law enforcement personnel, is above the law.
