The Delhi High Court on March 27, 2026, stepped in to ensure an independent investigation into allegations of custodial death at Pul Prahladpur police station, directing that the case be handed over to the Crime Branch under senior supervision.
Background of the Case
The petition was filed by Rahul Chauhan, who alleged that his father died following illegal detention and assault by police officials inside the Pul Prahladpur police station on February 23, 2026. According to the plea, both the petitioner and his father had been taken to the police station in connection with a family property dispute.
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It was claimed that inside the station, the father was taken into a separate room and allegedly beaten by certain police personnel. He was later taken to AIIMS, where he was declared “brought dead.”
The petitioner also pointed out that his complaint dated March 2, 2026, to the Deputy Commissioner of Police had received no response.
During the hearing, the Court called the Station House Officer (SHO) and the Investigating Officer (IO) to appear in person along with the case file and CCTV footage of relevant dates.
However, the SHO informed the Court that the CCTV system of the police station was not functional between February 22 and February 24 due to damage allegedly caused by monkeys. The Court recorded this explanation, noting that entries had been made regarding the breakdown.
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The SHO further stated that some alternative video footage—recorded by police personnel and from outside the petitioner’s residence—was available.
The Court also took note of a key concern raised by the petitioner: the investigation was being carried out by an officer from the same police station where the accused officials were posted.
Observing the situation, the bench noted the need to avoid any apprehension of bias. As the Court put it, “in the interests of justice and in order to obviate any conflict or allegations that may come to be made subsequently,” a change in the investigating agency was necessary.
Decision of the Court
The Court transferred the investigation of FIR No. 44/2026 from Pul Prahladpur Police Station to the Crime Branch, Delhi.
It directed the Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) to appoint an investigating officer of at least the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), who would conduct the probe under direct supervision.
The Court also ordered that:
- The existing case file be sealed and sent directly to the Joint Commissioner (Crime).
- All evidence, including video footage and viscera samples, be handed over to the newly appointed investigating officer.
- The SHO must file an affidavit regarding the CCTV footage status.
- A status report on the investigation be filed before the next hearing date.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on May 5, 2026.
Case Details
Case Title: Rahul Chauhan vs State NCT of Delhi & Ors.
Case Number: W.P.(CRL) 997/2026
Judge: Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani
Decision Date: March 27, 2026
