Bengaluru: A police sub-inspector attached to the Amruthahalli Police Station has been arrested for allegedly assaulting and subjecting juvenile accused to degrading treatment while interrogating them in connection with a murder case. The officer has been booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant legal provisions.
The incident, which allegedly occurred a few months ago, came to light after a video reportedly reached senior police officials, prompting an internal inquiry and criminal proceedings.
Officer accused of illegal detention
According to police sources, the accused officer, identified as PSI Praveen, had brought several suspects, including juveniles, for questioning in connection with a murder case registered last year.
Instead of keeping the juveniles at an authorised facility, he allegedly detained them at a private location during the course of the interrogation.
Authorities are investigating whether established procedures governing the handling of juveniles in custody were violated.
Allegations of assault and degrading treatment
Police allege that during the detention, the sub-inspector assaulted the juvenile accused with a belt.
Investigators further allege that one of the juveniles was subjected to degrading and abusive treatment involving another accused. The alleged incident was reportedly recorded on the officer’s mobile phone.
The contents of the video have not been made public, and the allegations are currently under investigation.
Video prompts criminal case
According to police, the alleged video later reached senior officers, leading to the registration of a criminal case at the Kothanur Police Station.
Following a preliminary inquiry, the officer was arrested.
Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with other sections relating to abusive and obscene conduct.
Officials have not disclosed further details as the investigation is ongoing.
Investigation underway
The Bengaluru Police are continuing their investigation to establish the sequence of events and determine whether additional offences were committed.
Authorities are also examining the circumstances under which the juveniles were allegedly detained at a private location instead of being kept at an authorised facility.
Further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
Conclusion
The arrest of the police sub-inspector has raised serious concerns over the alleged treatment of juveniles during police interrogation. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to examine both the allegations of abuse and compliance with procedures governing the custody and protection of children in conflict with the law.