Fighting Torture and Custodial Violence: A Year of Impact by PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas
In 2024, the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) and JanMitra Nyas (JMN) achieved remarkable progress in their mission to combat custodial violence, torture, and other human rights violations. With the critical support of the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, these organizations provided much-needed hope and justice to victims. Their efforts underscore the importance of systemic reforms and community engagement in eradicating human rights abuses.
Breaking Down the Cases
The data from 2024 highlights the magnitude of custodial violence tackled by PVCHR and JMN:
Custodial Deaths: 14 cases of individuals who tragically lost their lives in custody, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability.
Police Torture (PT): 126 cases where individuals were subjected to physical and psychological abuse by law enforcement.
Extra-Judicial Killings: No cases reported, demonstrating the impact of vigilant advocacy.
Death in Police Firing: 1 incident, showcasing the need for responsible use of force.
Custodial Torture: 1 severe case of inhumane treatment in detention.
Total Cases: 143
Demographics of Victims
The victims came from diverse backgrounds but shared a common struggle for justice:
Male Victims: 86
Female Victims: 52
Mixed Cases: 4
Total Cases: 142
Key Interventions
PVCHR and JMN employed a multifaceted approach to address these violations, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term reforms:
Legal Advocacy:
Pursued justice in 14 court cases with unwavering determination.
Undertook 160 meta-legal interventions, including petitions, and representations to policymakers, administrations, and human rights institutions.
Community Engagement:
Raised awareness about custodial violence through community empowerment and education.
Fostered accountability and resilience by building grassroots coalitions.
Victim Support:
Provided essential rehabilitation and psychosocial care, funded by the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture.
The Human Cost of Police Torture
The staggering 126 cases of police torture reveal systemic flaws within law enforcement. Survivors of these abuses endure both physical scars and long-term psychological trauma. PVCHR and JMN’s interventions have been pivotal in ensuring victims receive legal redress and mental health support.
A Call for Change
The work of PVCHR and JMN highlights the systemic factors perpetuating custodial violence. Their advocacy efforts have been instrumental in:
Identifying gaps in law enforcement practices.
Demanding accountability for perpetrators.
Strengthening policies and frameworks to prevent torture and ensure justice.
Case Study: Sai Stone Crusher Tragedy
One illustrative case involved a young laborer who tragically died at Sai Stone Crusher in Swar, Kashipur, Uttarakhand. A college student working in hazardous conditions to support his family, he fell victim to unsafe practices and the lack of basic safety measures. The complainant, an HRD, brought to the notice of the Commission, a news report that a labourer died on being buried under sand at the Sai Stone Crusher in the Swar area, Kashipur, Uttarakhand. Police misbehaved with his family on their arrival at the incident place. Key findings from the investigation included:
Violation of labor laws, with workers denied safety equipment.
Failure of the stone crusher’s owner to maintain wage and attendance records.
Negligence from labor officials in enforcing regulations.
Despite compensation of ₹11,00,000 provided to the victim’s family, the case underscored significant lapses in oversight. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) directed the Labor Commissioner, Uttar Pradesh, to submit an action-taken report, emphasizing the need for comprehensive enforcement of labor laws.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 unfolds, PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas remain resolute in their mission to eradicate torture and custodial violence. Their commitment is reinforced by the support of international allies, including the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. Every case resolved, every policy improved, and every victim rehabilitated marks progress toward a society free from torture and abuse.
PVCHR and JMN call on governments, civil society, and individuals to join hands in this critical fight for justice and human dignity. Together, we can ensure a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Summary of Data from 2024
Custodial Deaths: 14
Police Torture: 126
Extra-Judicial Killings: 0
Death in Police Firing: 1
Custodial Torture: 1
Total Cases: 143
Demographics of Victims
Male Victims: 86
Female Victims: 52
Mixed Cases: 4
Total Cases: 142
Advocacy and Legal Actions
Meta-Legal Interventions: 160
Court Cases: 14
Fighting Torture and Custodial Violence: A Year of Impact by PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd
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