The Campaign Against State Repression has accused the Delhi Police Special Cell of abducting, illegally detaining and torturing several labour and student activists in Delhi. The group described the alleged actions as a “grave assault on democratic rights and civil liberties.”
According to the statement, the incidents began on March 12, 2026, when labour rights activist Shiv Kumar and student activist Ilakkiya were allegedly picked up near Dayal Singh College without any legal procedure.
The organisation claimed that their detention violated constitutional safeguards and due process.
Allegations of Torture and Coercion
CASR alleged that Shiv Kumar was subjected to severe physical and sexual torture while in custody.
“He was beaten, humiliated and forced to give a false statement at gunpoint,” the statement said, adding that he was also threatened with death.
The group further claimed that detainees were stripped, assaulted and subjected to degrading treatment. It alleged that such acts were intended to force confessions and silence activism.
In another case, Manjeet Kumar, associated with a labour organisation, was allegedly detained the same day while returning from a solidarity programme.
“Upon learning about his caste identity, he was humiliated and subjected to caste based abuse,” the statement said. It also alleged sexual violence and physical assault during his detention.
Targeting of Families and Legal Support
The organisation also claimed that individuals trying to seek legal remedies were targeted.
A man identified as Aman was allegedly detained when he attempted to assist in filing a habeas corpus petition. “He was threatened not to approach the courts,” the statement said, calling it a direct attack on access to justice.
More Activists Allegedly Detained
CASR said several others, including students and activists such as Gaurav, Rudra, Akshay and Avinash, were also detained and subjected to physical assault and coercion.
The group alleged that detainees were forced to record statements and threatened with serious consequences if they refused.
“These testimonies reveal a systematic pattern of abuse including illegal detention, torture and humiliation,” the organisation said.
Call for Judicial Inquiry
The rights group has demanded an independent judicial inquiry into the matter and strict action against officials found responsible.
It also called for an immediate end to what it described as harassment of labour and student activists, and sought the release of seized personal belongings.
“These actions violate the Constitution and international human rights obligations,” the statement said.
Police Yet to Respond
There has been no immediate response from the Delhi Police regarding the allegations.
