Mr. Washim Sajad, a 25-year-old forest rights activist and HRD, faced illegal arrest and subsequent custodial torture leading to his death. The incident occurred on April 7, 2023, in Dhurki village, Garhwa District, Jharkhand.

Violations include:

• The illegal arrest and abduction of Mr. Sajad, contrary to DK Basu guidelines on arrest and detention.
• Breach of procedural practices mandated by CrPC, Supreme Court, and NHRC guidelines.
• Custodial torture and death constitute serious violations of human rights law, including Article 21 - Right to Life guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.

HRDA urges the NHRC to:

Initiate a transparent, independent inquiry into the illegal arrest, custodial torture, and death of Mr. Sajad, with a report to be submitted within two weeks and demand copies of all relevant documents from the Director General of Police of Jharkhand for independent examination by the Commission within 48 hours. Direct suspension and filing of charges against implicated police personnel and ensure the safety of HRD's family and protect them from further police harassment.