Assam's Alarming Custodial Death Count Since 2021

Since May 2021, Assam has witnessed 80 deaths of accused individuals in police custody or before formal remand. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reported to the assembly that these incidents include 39 in custody and others before remand, with 183 resulting in injuries, intensifying scrutiny on police practices.

The Assam government reported that 80 accused individuals have died in police custody or before being officially remanded since May 2021. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed this figure while addressing a query from independent legislator Akhil Gogoi in the assembly.

From May 10, 2021, to November 19, 2025, 39 individuals died in custody, and 183 were injured or sustained bullet wounds, Sarma stated. Additionally, 41 deaths and 40 injuries occurred before individuals were formally taken into custody.

Despite guidelines, magistrate-level inquiries have been conducted in all 180 cases of deaths and injuries, including 78 custodial death cases, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Sarma noted that even though inquiries are not mandatory for shootings or injuries, they were conducted in 102 such incidents.

(With inputs from agencies.)