Arunachal: One allegedly beaten to death at rehabilitation center in Pasighat, 11 arrested

A harrowing incident at Serene Life Rehab in Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh has sparked outrage after a 21-year-old inmate was allegedly beaten to death by the staff. Disturbing video footage circulating on social media has brought the grim reality of the rehabilitation center to light, leading to the arrest of 11 individuals involved in the tragic incident.

On July 20th, a complaint was filed by Mohimang Litin at the Pasighat police station, reporting that her son, Olip Litin Mukherjee, had died under suspicious circumstances at the rehab center located in Gumin Nagar. The complainant accused the staff of brutally assaulting her son, which led to his death.

Pasighat Superintendent of Police, Sachin Singhal, detailed the swift actions taken by the authorities. An FIR was lodged under Section 103(1)/3(5) BNS, and an immediate investigation commenced. The police arrested 11 individuals allegedly connected to the incident and discovered that the rehabilitation center was operating without the necessary permissions.

Key developments in the case include:
- Conducting inquest and post-mortem examinations in compliance with legal protocols.
- Recovery of sticks and batons used in the assault, with the seizure process videographed for evidence.
- Seizure of DVRs from four CCTV cameras that captured the incident, done in the presence of independent witnesses.
- The court granted a 5-day police custody for all 11 accused.
- Medical examinations were conducted for 15 other injured inmates.
- Notification to the DC Office Pasighat to take action against unlicensed rehab centers.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the violent altercation erupted as some inmates attempted to leave the center, resulting in severe physical punishment that proved fatal for Mukherjee. Authorities continue to gather more evidence and testimonies from the injured inmates and the accused.

The incident has prompted a strong reaction from the Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society (APWWS), which condemned the inhumane treatment and called for strict action against those responsible. APWWS emphasized that rehabilitation centers should serve as places of reformation and not torture chambers. They urged the government to establish clear guidelines, rules, and regulations for the operation of private rehabilitation centers. They also stressed the importance of government registration and regular inspections to ensure the proper functioning of these institutions.