THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 5: Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda has written to the Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), demanding an independent and judicial inquiry into the alleged custodial death of Ajit Mahto in the Mango area of Jamshedpur.
Alleged Custodial Death Raises Human Rights Concerns
In his letter, Arjun Munda stated that Ajit Mahto, a resident of Gokul Nagar slum in Mango, died on December 30, 2025, while in police custody. He said the incident prima facie amounts to a serious violation of the right to life and dignity guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution and established human rights norms.
Questions Raised Over Police Action
Munda expressed concern that instead of an independent probe, only an unnatural death (UD) case was registered. He alleged that the deceased’s family members were made to sign blank papers and were given ₹2 lakh, without any clear explanation of the legal basis or procedure.
“This raises serious questions about the transparency and impartiality of the investigation,” he said in the letter.
Family Denied Access, Allegation of Police Torture
The former Chief Minister further noted that the family was not allowed to meet Ajit Mahto for nearly two days after his arrest, strengthening the suspicion that the death may have been caused by police torture.
During this period, Mahto’s pregnant wife gave birth to a baby girl. Munda highlighted that Ajit Mahto was the sole breadwinner of the family, and his death has pushed them into severe social, economic, and mental distress.
Demand for Judicial Inquiry and Compensation
Calling custodial death a grave human rights violation, Arjun Munda urged the NHRC to:
- Take suo motu cognisance of the case and order an independent judicial inquiry
- Initiate strict legal and departmental action against police personnel found guilty
- Ensure fair compensation, rehabilitation, and security for the deceased’s family
He expressed confidence that the NHRC would intervene promptly to ensure justice in this serious and sensitive matter.
