SHILLONG: Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma has sought the intervention of Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma to initiate an investigation into the death of a Garo youth named Niksamseng Ch Marak, who died under suspicious circumstances at a rehabilitation center in Goalpara district of Assam.
In a letter, Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma stated that Niksamseng Ch Marak was apprehended by Assam police on July 02.
He was found dead two days later, on July 04 at the New Life Foundation Centre at Nayapara in Goalpara district of Assam with severe injuries, including a deep knife cut on his face, burns, and injuries on his chin, hips and legs.
The Meghalaya CM noted that the family of Niksamseng Ch Marak alleges he was subjected to brutal torture and beating, contradicting the rehab center's claim that he committed suicide.
"I request an immediate investigation into this incident to ensure justice for the family," Sangma stated in his letter.
He also mentioned that the family had filed a First Information Report (FIR) regarding the incident, urging for a prompt inquiry.
In response to a complaint lodged by the Achik State People’s Front (ASPF) and Garo Jatiya Parishad (GJP), the police have registered a case (number 88/24) under sections 103(1) and 238-3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.
The caretaker of the rehab center, Jintu Chakravorty (24), from Paikan under Krishnai police station in Goalpara district of Assam has been identified as the prime suspect and is currently in police custody for further investigation.
The other accused are Prasenjit Nath (23) from Bapuji Nagar, Goalpara; Hanif Ali (28) from Kismatpur, Goalpara; Dhanmaina Banikya (38) from Durga Mandir, Ananda Nagar, Goalpara; Mohsen Khan from Bapuji Nagar, Goalpara; and Kunal Das (23) from Boro Bazar, Goalpara.
A minor has also been arrested and has been transferred to a juvenile center in Goalpara.
Additionally, one injured person is receiving treatment at Goalpara Civil Hospital and will be arrested soon.
