West Bengal CID to probe death of man in police custody

The West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has taken over the investigation into the death of Birju Keot, the husband of former Trinamool Congress (TMC) councillor Jenny Sharma Keot, while in police custody.

Keot was arrested on August 6 on charges including extortion and assault. On the morning of August 8, he was removed from jail in an unconscious state and transported to Kalyani Hospital, but he died en route. Following the incident, the investigating officer of the relevant police station was suspended, and the Inspector-in-Charge was removed from their position.

The state government has acknowledged potential police negligence. In addition to the CID probe, a magisterial inquiry has been assigned to the District Magistrate of North 24 Parganas, Shilpi Gaurisaria. To support the deceased's family, the government has announced a financial aid package of 10 lakh rupees and a commitment to provide the widow with a Group-D government job after one year of monthly financial assistance.