Youth's suicide after police harassment sparks tension in Nellore

TIRUPATI: A youth from Rapur mandal in Nellore district died on Thursday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Tirupati. He had consumed poison following his arrest and alleged custodial torture in Tirupati. An SI and a constable have been suspended in this connection.

The victim was Akash Ram, a resident of Akkamambarapum in Rapur mandal, a student at a private college in Nellore. His family alleged that the youth was tortured in custody by the police for three days in the guise of questioning in relation to a love affair he had with a girl.

He attempted suicide in front of the Sydapuram Police station by consuming a harmful pesticide.

Tensions arose as the youth’s relatives staged a protest outside the Sydapuram Police Station, demanding action against the sub-inspector Naga Babu and the constables who allegedly tortured the youth. To maintain order, the district police deployed forces at the Sydapuram police station.

According to Atmakur DSP Kota Reddy, the victim, Akash was in his mid-20s. He had fallen in love with a girl and they planned marriage. The girl's parents opposed the relationship and arranged her marriage with another man a year ago. A few days ago, Akash and the girl eloped from their homes, prompting the girl's husband to file a complaint with the Sydapuram police.

During the investigation, the Sydapuram police summoned Akash for questioning. However, while the case was ongoing, Akash consumed pesticide in front of the police station on Tuesday, citing unbearable harassment from the police. He was rushed to a hospital in Gudur and later transferred to SVIMS in Tirupati.

Akash's father, V Ankaiah, alleged that the Sydapuram police subjected Akash to three days of physical assault and torture.

A case has been registered against sub-inspector Naga Babu and constable Veerabrahmam under sections of custodial death. Kavali DSP Venkata Ramana has been appointed as the investigative officer. Based on the preliminary inquiry, SP Tirumaleswara Reddy suspended the SI and the constable on Friday.