Sambalpur man dies in custody; family alleges torture

A 27-year-old man named Kadir Sheikh died in police custody in Sambalpur, Odisha, on Monday. He was arrested for stealing a submersible water pump. His death has raised serious allegations of torture from his family. Kadir Sheikh, from Khistianpada, was detained on Sunday evening after police received a theft complaint. They claim to have found the stolen items in his possession. Following his arrest, Kadir was reportedly declared healthy during a medical check-up. However, he collapsed while being taken to court. Kadir was then rushed to the VIMSAR hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His family expressed disbelief and anger, asking why they were not notified of his arrest and how he fell ill so quickly after being deemed healthy. Local political leaders have stepped forward, demanding accountability from police officers. One activist called for national human rights oversight, claiming Kadir was tortured without legal representation and denied food and water. The Sambalpur police denied the allegations. The Superintendent of Police stated that a preliminary examination indicated Kadir’s death was due to natural causes, with no visible injuries noted.