Following the High Court’s order, The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation of the death of Faizan, a 23-year-old Muslim man, during the Delhi pogrom.
In a video that dates back to February 24, 2020, Faizan along with four other Muslim men was assaulted with sticks by a group of policemen who forced them to sing the National anthem and Vande Mataram.
After the torture, Police took him into custody and released him the next day.
According to Faizan’s mother Kismatun, Faizan was assaulted and illegally detained and was even denied permission to go to the hospital when his condition was critical.
The CBI was asked to probe by the High Court based on two video footage where policemen were seen physically assaulting all five men.
“More than four and a half years have elapsed, however, not even one of the policemen involved in the abuse and assault has been identified in the course of the investigation so far,” Justice Bhambhani had told the High Court late in July.
“As much as this shows unlawful actions of the policeman it is important to note that the case also presents allegations of gross violation of human rights. The policemen yet to be identified who were entrusted to be the custodians of the law and were in the position of power and authority seemed motivated and driven by religious bigotry,” he added.
He further stated “Even if it is assumed that Faizan and the other young men had sustained some injuries earlier to the riots, several policemen present at the spot were clearly seen surrounding, dragging, kicking and striking Faizan and the other men.”
