Chugh requested the human rights body to send an independent fact-finding team to the village where the incident took place and the police station concerned. He also sought directions for registration of an FIR against the officers allegedly involved, including the deputy superintendent of police.
The BJP leader further sought high-level security and medical assistance for the victim and his family, alleging that they face serious threats from the State machinery.
In a letter to NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo, Chugh, who is also the BJP national headquarters in-charge, alleged that local youth Mohanjeet Singh was arrested and subjected to brutal custodial torture after waving a black flag at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s programme in Sheron village on September 2. Singh had reportedly waved the flag to protest against the AAP Government’s handling of the drug menace.
Chugh alleged that Singh was subjected to brutality “reminiscent of medieval-era torture”, claiming that he was stripped naked and beaten in custody.
According to the BJP MP, Singh’s thighs were cut with a blade, salt was rubbed into his bleeding wounds and he was subjected to repeated electric shocks.
“I am writing to urgently and immediately draw your attention to a deeply disturbing and horrific incident of alleged State-sponsored custodial torture in Punjab, which has completely shaken the conscience of our democratic society,” Chugh wrote.
“The brutal treatment allegedly meted out to a young citizen by Punjab Police not only violates fundamental human rights but also represents a dark day for democracy and the rule of law in the state,” he added.
Quoting the youth’s revelation to the media, Chugh alleged that police officials made a video call while Singh was being stripped and assaulted.
“The officials allegedly showed the youth’s naked, bloodied, and agonised condition to the caller. If true, this would indicate the direct involvement and sadistic complicity of the highest executive office of the State machinery,” he said.
The BJP leader also alleged that police officials forcibly opened the youth’s “joora” (hair knot) and pulled his beard and hair, describing the alleged act as an attack on his Sikh identity and religious sentiments.
Chugh further alleged that a DSP-rank officer tortured and humiliated Singh’s elderly mother and sister.
“We cannot allow our State to become a police State, where young people are subjected to torture and humiliation for raising their voice against drugs,” he said, demanding action.
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