Death of Youth in Custody: Angry Protests at Maitighar, Allegations of ‘False Case and Murder,’ Demand for Impartial Investigation

Kathmandu — A protest was held at Maitighar in Kathmandu on Saturday, demanding an impartial investigation into the death of a youth who was in custody at the Area Police Office, Khurkot, in Sindhuli.

Shrikrishna Bik, 23, of Jumlidanda, Sunkoshi Rural Municipality-3, died in police custody on Baisakh 7. Following the incident, a demonstration was organized by the Joint Political Dalit Struggle Committee, which was attended by lawmakers and leaders from various political parties.

The protesters displayed placards reading “Justice for Shrikrishna Bik, Killed in Police Custody” and other slogans, demanding an end to untouchability, discrimination, ostracism, and oppression faced by the Dalit community.

Shrikrishna Bik was arrested on charges of rape following a dispute that arose after his inter-caste love marriage to a girl from Khotang. The family and rights activists, alleging that a false case was filed against him, have continued their agitation, demanding an impartial judicial inquiry into the incident.