A magisterial inquiry has been initiated into the death of a man who was held for questioning in a drug bust. The inquiry aims to determine the cause of death and whether custodial violence was involved.¹

According to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) guidelines, a magisterial inquiry must be conducted in all cases of custodial deaths. The inquiry should be conducted by a judicial magistrate or a metropolitan magistrate, and should include a detailed examination of the circumstances surrounding the death.

The NHRC guidelines also emphasize the importance of video recording and photographing the post-mortem examination in cases of custodial deaths. This is to ensure that the examination is conducted transparently and that all evidence is preserved.

In addition to the magisterial inquiry, the police are also required to register an FIR in cases of custodial deaths. This is to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted and that those responsible for the death are held accountable.

The incident highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in police custody. Custodial violence is a serious human rights issue that requires immediate attention and action.