The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has taken strong cognizance of allegations of brutality and misconduct by a senior police officer, Prasun Kanti Tripura, TPS, who served as SDPO Amtali. The Commission has recommended compensation for the victim and departmental action against the officer following a detailed inquiry.
The case stems from a complaint lodged by Binoy Debnath of Abhoynagar, Jagatpur, regarding the alleged torture of his son, Dr. Kaushik Debnath, by Prasun Kanti Tripura, his daughter, his son, and their associates. The incident occurred on January 25, 2024, and left Dr. Kaushik hospitalized with severe injuries.
According to the investigation report submitted by Dy. SP L. Molsom of the THRC Investigation Wing, the incident began when Dr. Kaushik stepped out of his house to meet a Swiggy delivery agent. Due to chaos at a nearby tri-junction, the delivery agent could not approach the house. Dr. Kaushik proceeded towards the delivery agent, using his mobile phone, perhaps, to track the agent’s location.
This action was misinterpreted by the daughter of Prasun Kanti Tripura, who assumed that Dr. Kaushik was recording the scene. Acting on this misunderstanding, she allegedly snatched Dr. Kaushik’s mobile phone, which was later returned by police officers present at the scene.
Subsequently, Prasun Kanti Tripura, accompanied by 15-20 associates, arrived at the location. The THRC report states that on his daughter’s indication, the officer and his associates assaulted Dr. Kaushik, causing grievous injuries. Dr. Kaushik was later hospitalized in the Surgical Ward of AGMC & GBP Hospital.
The report further reveals that the group pursued Dr. Kaushik to the Abhoynagar Outpost, attempting further harm, which was prevented by the police on duty.
The THRC investigation uncovered several instances of misconduct by Prasun Kanti Tripura:
- Misuse of Official Position: As a senior police officer, he left his jurisdiction without authorization and participated in an unlawful assembly to commit violence.
- Unlawful Assembly: The officer’s involvement in a riotous group reflects a gross violation of his duty to uphold law and order.
- False Claims: Contrary to his statements, there was no evidence of injuries to his daughter and son, as verified by witness accounts and medical records.
The Commission noted that the incident stemmed from a minor misunderstanding and that Dr. Kaushik became a victim of unwarranted brutality.
In light of the findings, the THRC has made the following recommendations:
- Compensation: A token compensation of Rs 25,000 is to be paid to Dr. Kaushik by the Home Department of Tripura, which may recover the amount from Prasun Kanti Tripura’s salary.
- Departmental Proceedings: The Commission has recommended disciplinary action against the officer for unauthorized absence from his post and participation in criminal activities.
The THRC’s observations underscore the importance of accountability in law enforcement. The Commission emphasized that police officers are entrusted with maintaining law and order and should not indulge in activities that undermine public trust.
Justice S.C. Das, Chairperson of the Commission, remarked, “If police officers indulge in such activities, it will have an adverse and serious impact on society.”
(Tripura, Northeast)
