Chennai: Relatives of a 29-year-old remand prisoner staged a road roko in Taramani after the man, arrested by the Taramani police on petty charges three days ago, died at the government Royapettah hospital on Wednesday due to health complications.
The protesting family members and public alleged that custodial torture led to complications in his health condition.
According to sources, the deceased, Thanga Kumar, works in a water supply business in MGR nagar in Taramani. Last Sunday, he was apprehended by the sub-inspector and a constable who were on rounds in the area, for allegedly entering into an altercation with them.
Police sources said the man allegedly abused them and collared the SI when they questioned him, following which he, along with his brother, Thanga Kutty, were taken to the police station. A petty case under section 75 of CrPC was slapped against them and they were remanded in judicial custody in Puzhal prison.
On Wednesday, Thanga Kumar was brought to the government Royapettah hospital by the prison authorities after he complained of health complications. He had a history of diabetes and suffered from thyroid problem, the police claimed. He was declared dead on arrival at the GRH and the police informed the family around 3 pm about his death.
Later in the evening, around 300 residents of the area along with the family members gathered near the Taramani police station and held a protest.
Family members demanded departmental action against the police and also demanded that the wife of the deceased be given a job. According to the police, a magisterial enquiry will be conducted.
