AN ACTION TO THE INACTION OF CUSTODIAL VIOLENCE: CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract
Custodial violence remains a serious violation of human rights and constitutional protections, occurring when an individual is subjected to physical, mental, or sexual abuse while in police or law enforcement custody. It includes practices such as torture, intimidation, forced confession, sexual assault, enforced disappearance, and custodial death. This issue disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, women, minors, economically weaker sections, and indigent communities. Although custodial violence is prohibited under law, its regulation is fragmented across various legal provisions, and punishment depends on the nature and gravity of the offence. This study examines the causes of custodial violence and emphasizes the need for stronger accountability mechanisms, effective legal enforcement, and better protection of detainees’ human rights. It argues that reducing custodial violence is essential for upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and maintaining public trust in the criminal justice system.