Daijiworld Media Network - Vasco da Gama

Vasco da Gama, Jan 4: The mysterious death of a 36-year-old migrant worker from West Bengal while in police custody in Goa has triggered serious allegations of custodial murder, with his family demanding an immediate and impartial probe against jail and police officials.

The deceased, Debananda Sana, hailed from Ramakrishnapally under ward No. 11 of Taki municipality in North 24 Parganas district. His family alleged that he was beaten to death after being taken into custody by Vasco da Gama Police on December 25, reportedly on suspicion of theft.

Debananda had been working as a mason in the Fakir Varam Galli area of Vasco da Gama for several years. According to family members, they were informed the next day, on December 26, that he had been admitted to the Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour at Bambolim. He was later shifted to Goa Medical College, where he died on December 30.

“We were informed about his death over the phone. We are devastated and will approach the chief minister seeking justice,” a family member said.

Following the intervention of local Trinamool Congress functionaries and representatives from Taki, and with assistance from the Basirhat District Police, Debananda’s body was brought to Kolkata airport on Saturday and then taken to his native place in Taki.

Scenes of grief unfolded at his residence, with his mother Kamala Sana repeatedly losing consciousness. “Our family survived on my son’s earnings. Why did the Goa police arrest him, and how did he die in custody?” she cried, also questioning the safety of Bengalis working in other states.

Debananda’s sister, Ruma Mondal, alleged custodial torture, claiming visible injury marks on his body. “I spoke to my brother on the morning of his arrest. There are bruises and injury marks on the soles of his feet, which clearly suggest he was beaten. The police killed him,” she alleged.

The family has demanded a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Debananda Sana’s death, as questions continue to mount over custodial safety and accountability.