Govt should not oppose CBI probe in custodial death case

Kerala High court today orally observed that it would be desirable for the state government not to oppose the plea for CBI investigation into the custodial death of Sampath, an accused in the murder of a 47-year-old housewife in Palakaad in March this year.

Justice V Ramkumar said state police may not be able to conduct a proper investigation into the custodial death. Hence the government should not oppose cbi probe, justifying their investigation.

The observation was made by the court while considering a petition by Murukesh, seeking CBI probe into his brother's death.

The court directed the government to file their statement by May 21.

The petitioner had complained that evidence was being 'erased' each day.

Twelve policemen have so far been suspended in connection with Sampath's custodial death. However, his relatives have alleged more top police personnel were involved in the alleged torture resulting in his death.

Sampath and two others were arrested by police from Coimbatore within days of the murder of Sheela (47) on March 23. Her mother was seriously injured. But before he was produced in court, Sampath died, allegedly due to severe torture he was subjected to during questioning by police.