BARGARH: A section of villagers of Boulsingha under Bhatli police limits here blocked Bhatli-Ambabhona road on Tuesday alleging custodial death of one Prabhat Dharua (35). The blockade that started at 9.30 am, continued till late in the evening.
According to reports, Prabhat was beaten up by villagers on charges of misbehaving with a minor girl of the village on June 30. Later, he was admitted to VIMSAR at Burla and after undergoing treatment for a few days, he had returned to his house.
On being informed about his return, Bhatli police picked up Prabhat from his home on Monday. While in police custody, sources said, he fell ill and was admitted to Bhatli CHC. As his condition worsened, he was taken to Bargarh Hospital from where, he was shifted to VIMSAR at Burla, raising suspicion about torture in police custody. Accusing the police of custodial torture, villagers on Tuesday hit the streets demanding Rs 10 lakh compensation for the family of Prabhat, job for his wife and action against police personnel involved.
The impasse was resolved after Bargarh BDO Ajay Tiwari assured of financial assistance to Prabhat’s family under National Family Benefit Scheme.
Refuting the allegation, Bargarh SP Ashis Singh said a probe would be ordered to ascertain the cause of the death.