The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a detailed report from the Ganjam District Collector and Superintendent of Police regarding the alleged custodial death of Sushant Sahu at Kabisuryanagar police station.
The Commission acted on a complaint filed on May 31 and June 1, 2026, alleging that Sahu died due to police torture while in custody. Based on the complaint, the NHRC registered a case and initiated an inquiry.
In its directive, the NHRC asked officials to submit comprehensive details, including the post‑mortem report, FIR copy, site inspection report, cause of death, and any available CCTV footage from the lock‑up. It also sought information on whether a magisterial inquiry was conducted after the death.
The Commission emphasised that the investigation will determine whether police excesses led to the death. A specific timeline has been set for submitting the report.
The incident triggered widespread local outrage, with family members and residents accusing police of custodial torture. Social activists later lodged a formal complaint with the NHRC, increasing pressure on the administration and law‑enforcement authorities.
The NHRC’s intervention aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the probe into Sushant Sahu’s death.
