Auto driver’s family allege custody death, police deny charge

VARANASI: The family of a 46-year-old auto driver has alleged that he died in the lock-up of Gopiganj police station in Bhadohi district on Friday after he was beaten up by cops.

The incident took place on Friday when Ramji Mishra, a resident of Phoolbagh in Gopiganj, entered into an argument with his brother Ashok Mishra over a property dispute.

Refuting the allegations superintendent of police Sachindra Patel said, “Following an altercation over a property dispute between the duo, Ramji Mishra and his brother Ashok visited the police station. The police didn’t bring them to the police station. The altercation continued at the police station during which Ramji’s health began to deteriorate. He was rushed to the nearest government hospital where the doctors declared him brought dead. He was not put up in the lock-up.”

However, Mishra’s daughter Deepali Mishra, who reached the police station with her mother Kanchan Mishra, alleged that the police brought her father and uncle to the police station following an argument between the duo. Deepali also alleged that the cops used indecent language against her father, put him inside the lock up and then beat him. According to the preliminary findings of the autopsy report, heart attack was the cause of death, revealed doctors of PHC where Mishra was rushed for treatment. No FIR has been lodged so far.

A probe has been ordered to look into the family’s allegation that he was kept behind bars and beaten up. Deputy superintendent of police has been told to conduct the probe and submit the report at the earliest. Strict action will be taken if the allegations are found to be true, said Patel.