The Madras High Court has ordered the Tamil Nadu government to pay an additional ₹25 lakh as interim compensation to the family of Ajith Kumar, a temple guard who died due to custodial torture in Sivaganga. The court noted that the earlier compensation of ₹7.5 lakh was insufficient, especially in cases involving custodial violence.
A bench comprising Justice SM Subramaniam and Justice AD Maria Clete was informed that the state had already provided:
- ₹7.5 lakh as interim compensation
- Land for the deceased’s mother
- A government job for his brother
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However, the judges observed that in similar cases, higher compensation had been awarded. They directed the state to pay an additional ₹25 lakh, ensuring financial support for the grieving family.
"The compensation of ₹7.5 lakh is not sufficient. A higher amount must be paid in custodial death cases." – Madras High Court
During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel pointed out that despite earlier court orders for victim protection, no action had been taken. The court then instructed the Principal District Judge of Sivaganga to hear and resolve the protection applications within 7 working days.
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What Happened to Ajith Kumar?
Ajith Kumar worked as a temporary security guard at the Madapuram Bhdrakali Amman Temple in Thirupuvanam. He was taken into custody after two women accused him of stealing 10 sovereigns of gold jewelry from their car, which he had parked.
- He was first questioned and released but later detained again by a six-member police team led by Head Constable Kannan.
- Eyewitnesses stated that Ajith and others were severely beaten in custody.
- He collapsed and was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to injuries.
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The High Court called it a “police-organized crime” and ordered a judicial inquiry. The report by District Judge S John Sundarlal Suresh confirmed that Ajith died due to custodial torture.
Since the case involves serious police misconduct, the investigation was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The court also transferred the FIR related to the alleged theft to the CBI.
The agency has been directed to complete its probe and submit a final report by August 20.
Case Title: E Marees Kumar v. The Chief Secretary to the Government of Tamil Nadu and Others
Case No: WP(MD) 17949 of 2025