Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR, May 30: The All Arunachal Pradesh Youth Organization (AAPYO) has demanded the immediate suspension of all police personnel allegedly involved in the custodial torture of anti-drug activist Gumin Mize and called for a fair and impartial inquiry into the matter.
Addressing a press conference here on Saturday, AAPYO president Kipa Kanam alleged that the incident constituted a serious violation of human rights and constitutional safeguards guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
“The act of custodial torture has violated human rights, constitutional protections and established guidelines governing the treatment of persons in police custody,” he said.
The organization also sought compensation of Rs 1 crore for Mize, citing the severe mental trauma he allegedly suffered during his detention. According to AAPYO, a representation has been submitted to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), North Lakhimpur, seeking action in the matter.
AAPYO claimed that photographs of Mize show multiple bruises, swelling and blue marks on various parts of his body, raising serious concerns over alleged custodial abuse.
Demanding accountability, the organization urged the authorities to conduct an independent and impartial investigation and take appropriate action against those found responsible.
Kanam recalled that AAPYO had on May 25 sought departmental action against any police personnel found guilty of custodial torture, emphasizing that accountability and due process are essential for maintaining public confidence in law enforcement agencies.
Referring to the recent incident involving members of an anti-drug team and Rupam Kakoti along the Arunachal Pradesh-Assam border, the AAPYO president agreed with the observation made by the Assam police authorities that prior information should have been shared with either the Arunachal Pradesh or Assam police before undertaking such operations. The organization reiterated its demand for transparency, accountability and adherence to legal procedures in the handling of the case.