Overview

• A judicial inquiry concluded on July 8 that Ajith Kumar died from deliberate police brutality while in custody in Sivaganga district
• The post-mortem report documented 44 distinct injuries, including deep muscle contusions and internal hemorrhaging, pointing to sustained assault with sticks or rods
• Five Tamil Nadu police officers have been arrested and remain in judicial custody as the CBI evaluates whether to name additional accused
• The High Court ordered the CBI to appoint an investigating officer within one week and to complete its probe by August 20
• The case has amplified calls for independent investigations and witness protection following a series of custodial deaths in Tamil Nadu since 2021