Muzaffarnagar youth who self-immolated alleging police torture, extortion dies
What's the story
A 23-year-old man, identified as Anas, died on Wednesday at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital after suffering 80% burn injuries. The young man allegedly poured petrol on himself and set his house on fire after accusing the Budhana Police of harassment and torture last week. He was a resident of Hussainpur Kala village, Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh. Anas was initially admitted to a local hospital and later referred to Meerut and then Safdarjung Hospital due to his critical condition but he died.
Police accusations
Anas's allegations against Budhana police
In a video made before his death, Anas, with severe burn injuries, had alleged that the Budhana Police had beaten him and demanded a bribe of ₹5 lakh. He also claimed that the police thrashed him and threatened to kill him. He claimed he was released after paying ₹50,000. But even after paying the money, the extortion continued. The video of his allegations went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention.
Inquiry findings
Departmental inquiry reveals police shortcomings
In light of these serious allegations, Muzaffarnagar Senior Superintendent of Police Sanjay Kumar Verma ordered a departmental inquiry into the matter. The departmental inquiry, conducted by Superintendent of Police (SP) Rural Aditya Bansal, found prima facie shortcomings on the part of police officers. After these findings, SSP Verma suspended Sub Inspector Ram Avtar and Head Constables Bhupendra and Vikas from the Budhana Police Station's crime team. It is unclear why the police picked up Anas, who ran a mobile shop.