THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Afsana, wife of Noushad, who was missing for nearly 20 months from Pathanamthitta, has leveled grave accusations against the police. After being released on bail, Afsana revealed to the media that she was subjected to brutal torture in police custody, coercing her to confess to her husband’s murder.
“I had to admit to the murder under duress as I couldn’t endure the torture any longer. The Koodal police threatened that they would keep me away from my children and implicate my father in the case if I didn’t confess,” she said.
Afsana further disclosed that even the DySP, holding a high-ranking position in the district, was involved in the abuse. Though she couldn’t recall the names of those involved, she claimed that both uniformed and non-uniformed personnel participated in the beating.
Police sprayed pepper spray on my face and in my mouth. Unable to bear it all, I finally confessed,” she said.
Afsana said that she experienced third-degree torture from the police.
Afsana maintained her innocence, asserting that she never intended to harm her husband and had no mental health issues. However, the police relentlessly pressured her to admit to the crime.
Noushad had gone missing on November 5, 2021, leading his parents to file a police complaint. The Koodal police registered an FIR and launched an investigation, suspecting foul play and possible murder.
Later, Afsana informed the police that she had seen Noushad in Adoor, but instead of investigating her claim, the police turned against her and accused her.
Feeling unable to withstand the police’s brutality, Afsana confessed to her alleged crime. She now plans to file a complaint with the Chief Minister and DGP, seeking justice against police brutality. She also intends to approach the court to fight for her rights.
In response to media reports, the Human Rights Commission ordered an inquiry into the police’s severe beating of Afsana. The commission member, VK Binakumari, demanded that the state police chief submit an inquiry report within 15 days.
The emergence of Afsana’s serious allegations has shed new light on the case of Noushad’s disappearance, which remained unsolved until now.
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