Opposition demands high level probe into custodial death

Congress-led UDF Opposition and BJP in Kerala today demanded a high level probe into the alleged custodial death of a person who was taken into custody by police in Ernakulam district.
UDF leader Ramesh Chennithala, while seeking a high level probe into the death, said action should be taken against police personnel responsible for the incident.
He also alleged that the number of custodial deaths had increased after the CPI-M led LDF government came to power in May.
Meanwhile, BJP National Executive member V Muraleedharan said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who also holds the home portfolio, was keeping silent on instances of custodial death, which shows that "he is supporting such incidents."

"Police, who have to ensure protection to life and property of people, under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has become a threat to people," Muraleedharan said.
Shaheer (48), who was taken into custody from Cheranelloor area yesterday for allegedly stabbing another person, died today.

However, police rejected the allegation that he died due to any torture.
He was allegedly found in a highly inebriated and physically weak condition and taken for medical examination in the presence of locals soon after he was taken into custody.
A case under various IPC sections dealing with murder attempt was registered against him after he was taken to the Cheranelloor police station, police said.

Shaheer, lodged in the station cell last night, was allegedly found in an unconscious state this morning.He was immediately taken to the government hospital in Kochi but died before reaching the hospital, police said.