A 27-year-old temple worker and security guard, B. Ajith Kumar, died while in police custody at the Thiruppuvanam police station in Sivaganga district, leading to unrest and protests from his family and local residents. Ajith was a temporary employee at the Madapuram Bhadrakaliamman temple and was detained by police concerning the alleged theft of 9.5 sovereigns (approximately 10 pounds) of gold jewelry from a visitor’s car.
According to police sources, an elderly woman named Sivagami arrived at the temple from Thirumangalam with her granddaughter to offer prayers. She entrusted her car keys to Ajith, asking him to park the vehicle. Upon returning from her religious observance, she discovered that the gold jewelry had been stolen from her car.
Following a complaint, the Thiruppuvanam police questioned Ajith and four other individuals regarding the theft on Saturday. When Ajith allegedly refused to confess, police transported the group in a van for further interrogation. During this period, Ajith died under unclear circumstances. His death incited immediate outrage from his relatives and local residents of both Madapuram and Thiruppuvanam, who gathered outside the police station demanding justice.
Sivaganga District Superintendent of Police Ashish Rawat and senior officials responded quickly to the scene, engaging with the agitated crowd to ease tensions. Authorities increased police presence at the station to prevent any violent incidents as emotions escalated. The district police chief confirmed that an investigation into Ajith’s death while in custody is underway. Subsequently, six policemen from the Thiruppuvanam station have been suspended pending an inquiry.
Officials have assured that a thorough examination of the incident will take place, and any identified lapses will be addressed appropriately. This incident has reignited concerns regarding custodial violence in Tamil Nadu, prompting activists and opposition parties to call for an independent investigation.
It is noteworthy that since 2021, after the Stalin government took office, over 25 individuals have reportedly died due to alleged custodial torture. Meanwhile, Ajith’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/06/29/temple-worker-dies-in-police-custody-tension-erupts-in-tns-sivaganga/
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Publish Date: 2025-06-29 11:45:00
