Man dies in police custody, three cops suspended
By IANSMonday, June 21, 2010
LUCKNOW - The death of a physically-challenged man in police custody sparked mob fury and led to the suspension of three policemen in Uttar Pradesh’s Pratapgarh district, officials said Monday.
The violence erupted late Sunday in Nawabganj area, about 150 km from here, when a crowd stoned the police and tried to torch police vehicles.
The people were protesting over the death of Mathura Prasad, 60, a resident of Chatta village. Prasad, arrested Saturday for allegedly supplying illicit liquor, died Sunday.
Prasad’s family alleged that the man was tortured to death. Police officers said anything could be said only after an enquiry and post-mortem examination.
“I have ordered an enquiry. Three policemen have been suspended with immediate effect,” Superintendent of Police Lalji Shukla told reporters.
The three are a station house officer and two constables.
Police said the areas that saw violence were still tense.
“The situation is still tense but under control now. Several teams of police are camping in the area,” said Deputy Superintendent of Police I.P. Singh, who is heading the enquiry.
