The recent decision of the Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) to take suo motu cognisance of allegations of police brutality at Maina-Curtorim Police Station involving five persons, including a minor. According to reports, the victims were allegedly stripped, assaulted and humiliated while in police custody. The seriousness of the allegations prompted the suspension of some police personnel pending an inquiry.
Earlier, the GHRC had intervened in the Mapusa youth death case, where observations by the commission and media reports pointed to the presence of ante-mortem injuries on the deceased. Questions were raised about whether the injuries were the result of an assault while the youth was in police custody. The vast majority of police personnel perform their duties to the best of their abilities. However, isolated incidents of custodial abuse can severely damage public trust in the institution. Every allegation of police brutality must be subjected to transparent and impartial scrutiny.One of the most effective tools available today for establishing the truth is CCTV surveillance. The installation of cameras in police stations, lock-ups, interrogation rooms and entry-exit points can provide vital evidence in cases involving allegations of custodial misconduct. CCTV footage can protect citizens from abuse while also safeguarding honest police officers from false accusations.
