Rights group alleges abduction and torture of labour and student activists in Delhi

By A Representative 

The Campaign Against State Repression (CASR), a coalition of civil rights groups, has issued a statement condemning what it describes as the abduction, illegal detention, and torture of several labour, student, and anti-displacement activists by the Delhi Police Special Cell. The organization alleges that these actions constitute serious violations of democratic rights, civil liberties, and the rule of law.

According to CASR, on 12 March 2026, labour rights activist Shiv Kumar and student activist Ilakkiya were taken near Dayal Singh College, Delhi, without due process. CASR claims that Shiv Kumar was subjected to severe custodial abuse, including physical assault, sexual humiliation, and coercion into false statements. The group further alleges that other activists, including Manjeet Kumar, Gaurav, Rudra, Akshay, and Avinash, were also abducted and tortured in similar circumstances, with reports of caste-based abuse, sexual violence, and threats of extrajudicial killing.

CASR states that family members and supporters attempting to seek legal remedies were also targeted. The organization highlights the case of Aman, who was allegedly abducted and threatened after assisting in filing a habeas corpus petition, which it describes as an attempt to obstruct judicial processes.

The statement characterizes these incidents as part of a systematic campaign of abuse involving illegal abduction, incommunicado detention, custodial torture, sexual violence, caste-based degradation, forced confessions, and intimidation of families. CASR asserts that such practices violate constitutional protections, the Protection of Human Rights Act, and international obligations under the UN Convention Against Torture.

The group has demanded an immediate end to the alleged detentions and harassment, an independent judicial inquiry, prosecution of responsible officials, and the release of seized personal belongings and digital devices.