AIADMK slams TN govt over custodial death of 26-year-old as protests erupt

The AIADMK has strongly condemned the death of 26‑year‑old Akash Delison , who allegedly died due to custodial torture, and has demanded a high‑level probe into the conduct of the officers involved.

Akash, an engineering graduate from a Scheduled Caste background, was a known history‑sheeter with multiple pending cases, including one for attempt to murder. He was arrested by the Manamadurai police on March 6 after allegedly attacking two individuals with weapons. According to police, he sustained severe leg injuries while trying to escape by jumping off a bridge and was initially treated at Sivaganga Medical College. He was later remanded to judicial custody and shifted to the Convict Ward at Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH), Madurai, on March 7.

On the morning of March 8, Akash reportedly developed breathing difficulties during treatment and despite efforts by medical staff, he died at approximately 5:45 am. While the police claim he was under medical supervision and judicial remand at the time, his family alleged that he had informed them of being beaten by the police prior to his remand.

Following his death, family members and locals staged road protests in Manamadurai demanding justice and a transparent investigation. The AIADMK accused the Tamil Nadu government of recurring custodial deaths and called for accountability from the state administration and the officers involved.

Custodial deaths have been a persistent concern in Tamil Nadu . Data and rights groups have noted that the state has recorded dozens of such fatalities over recent years , with critics saying many victims are poor or marginalised and that convictions of police personnel are extremely rare . Between 2016 and 2021, hundreds of deaths in custody were reported, and even in more recent years, dozens of custodial deaths have drawn public criticism of police conduct and systemic issues within the criminal justice system. Despite arrests in some high‑profile cases, formal convictions of officers have been limited, prompting calls from activists and legal experts for stronger oversight and reforms to prevent deaths while in custody.

Political parties and activists have also urged the state to conduct an independent investigation, ensuring justice for Akash, while also highlighting concerns of caste‑based abuse. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and other senior ministers have not yet issued a detailed public statement on the incident, even as demands for transparency and strict action against the responsible police personnel intensify.