The First Additional District and Sessions Court in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has delivered a verdict finding nine police officers guilty in the custodial deaths of P. Jeyaraj and his son, J. Beniks. This significant ruling comes nearly three years after the tragic events that unfolded in Sathankulam, Thoothukudi district, during June 2020, as stated by advocate Jaba Singh. The father and son were taken into police custody on June 19, 2020, under allegations related to violating curfew regulations amidst the COVID-19 lockdown.

Details Surrounding the Custodial Deaths

According to the preliminary details of the case, after their arrest, Jeyaraj and Beniks were allegedly subjected to severe physical assault while in custody, leading to their remand at Kovilpatti sub-jail. Beniks succumbed to his injuries on June 22, 2020, and Jeyaraj passed away the following day. A total of ten police personnel were implicated, however, one officer, identified as Paldurai, passed away due to complications related to COVID-19 before the trial reached its conclusion. Nine officers, including Inspector Sridhar and Sub-Inspectors Balakrishnan and Raghu Ganesh, have been detained at Madurai Central Prison throughout the legal proceedings.

Statements from Legal Representatives

Advocate Jaba Singh, representing the victims’ family, expressed appreciation for the Central Bureau of Investigation’s role in the case, highlighting the thoroughness of their efforts. The sentencing phase for the nine convicted officers is set to occur on March 30. Singh noted, “The judge has remarked that out of ten accused, one has passed away, with the remaining nine now deemed guilty.” He indicated that the verdict was a significant stride towards justice for the victims’ family.

Victim’s Family Reacts to the Verdict

A family member of Jeyaraj and Beniks, named Persis, shared the emotional weight of the verdict. “Finally, they have been declared guilty after nearly five years of awaiting justice for my father and brother, who were brutally murdered. This delay has caused immense suffering, but knowing they are guilty brings a modicum of relief,” she remarked. Her statement reflects the long and painful journey the family has endured following the tragic events.

Investigation Findings and Allegations of Cover-up

The investigation conducted by the Central Bureau of Investigation revealed that Beniks had initially approached the police station to inquire about his father’s detention, which prompted a violent response from the officers. Inspector Sridhar allegedly directed his colleagues to “teach him a lesson,” leading to extensive custodial torture of both Jeyaraj and Beniks. The inquiry further uncovered attempts to destroy evidence, such as cleaning bloodstains at the police station and disposing of incriminating clothing. The CBI asserted that the father-son duo had not breached any lockdown restrictions, ultimately leading to a false case being recorded against them.

Medical Reports Following the Arrest

Following their time in police custody, both Jeyaraj and Beniks were admitted to Kovilpatti government hospital on June 22, 2020. Tragically, Beniks died later that night, while Jeyaraj’s health deteriorated, resulting in his death on the morning of June 23. This case has drawn significant public attention and has been a focal point for discussion on police accountability in India.

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