Court orders criminal case against DRI officer for inhuman treatment during statement collection

The Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate D H Khambhati of Ahmedabad has directed the registration of a criminal case against Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officers Sanjay Thakkar and J A Patel. The directive comes after serious allegations surfaced that the officers assaulted a complainant during an interrogation, causing physical injuries.

According to court proceedings, the DRI officials allegedly used excessive force while attempting to record the complainant’s statement, which the court described as ‘inhuman and degrading conduct.’ The complaint outlines that the officers beat the complainant with hands and belts, resulting in significant pain and injury.

The court emphasised that even while discharging official duties, customs, and DRI officers are bound by the law to respect human rights. This includes refraining from unnecessary force, conducting lawful searches and seizures, and upholding the dignity of every individual.

The magistrate said that every citizen of India has a constitutional right to life and liberty, which includes protection from cruel and inhuman treatment.

The court also criticised the lack of accountability and respect for legal protocols shown by the officers, stating that such actions undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in enforcement agencies.

As a result, the magistrate ordered not only the registration of the complaint, but also the initiation of criminal proceedings against both officials.