Sohra SI, 4 constables suspended over custodial torture allegation

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 9, 2025

A sub-inspector (SI) and four unarmed branch (UB) constables of the Sohra police station were suspended on Wednesday following a complaint alleging torture of a 19-year-old youth while in custody.   

“In immediate response to the complaint, B Wanswett, MPS, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Pynursla, was directed to conduct an enquiry into the matter and submit his findings. Based on the enquiry report submitted on 09-07-2025, one Sub-Inspector and four UB Constables of Sohra Police Station have been placed under suspension with immediate effect. Departmental Proceedings have also been initiated against them,” East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police (SP) Vivek Syiem said in a statement.

“Additionally, a criminal case has been registered against the concerned personnel under Sohra PS Case No. 10/2025 U/S 120(1)/3(5) BNS, and the investigation is being conducted by an Inspector-level officer from a different Police Station to ensure impartiality,” he added.

According to SP, Getwin Jyrwa of Mawkisyiem was arrested on July 3, 2025, in connection with a case related to assault, use of abusive language, and indecent exposure. An FIR was lodged against him on July 1.

After Jyrwa’s arrest, his mother, Mildred Jyrwa had filed a complaint before the district SP and the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) alleging that her son had suffered bodily injuries during his custody at Sohra Police Station, which she suspected were inflicted by police personnel.

The FIR lodged on July 1 had alleged that on June 28, 2025, Getwin Jyrwa assaulted an individual at Mawap, Mawkisyiem, using abusive and vulgar language, and issued threats to the victim and his clan.

Furthermore, in full public view, he allegedly exposed his private parts and made explicit threats, causing embarrassment and fear among the public.Despite being summoned twice by the Dorbar Shnong Mawkisyiem, Jyrwa failed to appear.

Based on the FIR, a case under Sections 131/133/296(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was registered against him.

On June 2, 2025, at around 9 PM, information was received regarding the presence of the accused at his residence.

A police team from Sohra PS proceeded to apprehend him, however, the accused managed to flee before their arrival.

On July 3, 2025 at approximately 11 am, his mother, Mildred Jyrwa, brought him to Sohra Police Station. She was informed that he would be released by evening. The accused was sent for medical examination to Sohra CHC and was brought back to the police station.

Later, at about 8:15 PM, his mother arrived at the police station, and he was released on bail bond.

In her complaint filed on July 7, Mildred Jyrwa alleged that her son had suffered bodily injuries during his custody at Sohra Police Station.

She stated that after picking him up, she had taken him for a medical examination to Sohra CHC, from where he was referred to Shillong Civil Hospital. She suspected that the injuries were inflicted by police personnel.

Meanwhile, the SP said the state police is committed to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability within its ranks. Strict action will be taken against any personnel found guilty of misconduct or abuse of authority, he warned.