The unfortunate deaths of Faizan, Jayaraj and his son Bennicks sparked a very emotional debate. People across the world are taking to the streets to protest and demand reforms to Indian policing. Later in February 2020, Faizan, an unarmed handcuffed man died in custody amid anti-CAA protests. The High Court would later describe this case as a “gross violation of human rights,” as well as a hate crime. In June 2020, Jayaraj and Bennicks were arrested for allegedly breaking Covid-19 curfew rules in Tamil Nadu. Tragically, they died in the process during this unfortunate experience. These incidents are part of a growing pattern of police violence rooted in India’s colonial history.
The book “Policing and Violence in India: Colonial Legacies and Contemporary Realities,” edited by Deana Heath and Jinee Lokaneeta, investigates the legacy of India’s colonial-era police system and how its legacy continues to live on today. Speaking Tiger published the book, which runs 368 pages. This legacy of violence in Indian policing often transcends individual misconduct. It exposes fundamental issues within the system that need to be addressed now.
Among these deaths, Faizan’s custodial death has been a turning point in the narrative of police brutality. His death occurred at the height of a pandemic-inspired, grassroots demand for widespread police reform. It brought up key questions regarding law enforcement’s treatment of dissent. The High Court’s judgment reaffirms the urgent need for accountability and reform in police practices to prevent this kind of violation from happening again.
Similarly, the deaths of Jayaraj and Bennicks have illustrated how the enforcement of laws can lead to catastrophic outcomes. As their case has matured, it has helped expose growing public and social concern surrounding police tactics, especially human rights violations during immigration enforcement actions.
In their book, Heath and Lokaneeta lay out an in-depth examination of these themes. Further, they claim that the colonial legacies of Indian policing perpetuate a climate of violence. This lack of accountability fosters an atmosphere endowed with impunity for law enforcement agencies. This legacy creates a culture where abuses can happen with no accountability, emphasizing the need for systemic reform.
Underneath the text is a passionate advocate for urgent reform. It highlights that addressing these entrenched issues is prerequisite to establishing a more equitable and accountable system of policing in India. The editors call for a reexamination of law enforcement practices and policies. They hope these to reflect the highest possible human rights standards.
Friend of the blog Policing and Violence in India retails for ₹799. This book is an invaluable tool for understanding the realities of policing in India at this critical moment in history. It challenges readers to think critically about the political history that has brought us to this moment, and how we can move forward toward real reform.