Undertrial prisoner dies at SCB hosp in Odisha, kin allege torture

Cuttack: An undertrial prisoner of Choudwar Circle Jail here undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Odisha’s Cuttack died today while his kin alleged that he was tortured by jail officials citing injury marks on the body.

The deceased has been identified as Saroj Kumar Das alias Bapi (37) of Das Sahi under Malgodown police limits.

Saroj was initially admitted to Hepatology department of the hospital and shifted to central ICU five days ago as his condition deteriorated.

According to reports, Saroj was arrested by Malgodown police on May 9 for his alleged involvement in a clash. Next day, he was forwarded to court. Later, he was sent to Choudwar Circle Jail. His wife had visited the jail on May 12 to give him some clothes. However, the jail officials did not allow her to meet him. Without having any option, his wife handed over the dresses to the jail officials and returned home. The Malgodown police informed his family on May 13 about the critical condition of Saroj, who was admitted to the SCB hospital for treatment.

The family members found injury marks on several parts of his body but doctor said he was suffering from jaundice.

However, the jail authority had refuted the allegation of torture and attack inside the jail premises.

“As Bapi was affected with Jaundice, he was admitted to the SCB since May 13,” Choudwar Circle Jail superintendent Niranjan Das had said.

“Question does not arise to assault Bapi in the prison. The allegations are baseless,” he had said.