Mumbai inmate Manjula Shetye died of assault by jail staff, not fall, says Maharashtra government

The revelation came after the Bombay high court pulled up the crime branch police for shoddy probe a few days ago.

The Maharashtra government on Friday admitted that an investigation into the death of Byculla jail inmate Manjula Shetye revealed her death was a result of an assault and not an accidental fall as claimed by the jail authorities.

Shetye had 17 injuries on her body. (File)

“There were 17 injury marks on her body and there is no doubt that her death was caused by staff assault. As per eye witnesses’ accounts, she was taken to the office of the jail authorities after which doors and windows were closed. We have got the CCTV footage,” Patil said.

The revelation came after the Bombay high court pulled up the crime branch police for shoddy probe a few days ago.

Patil also declared suspension of Dr Vishwas Roke of JJ hospital, who issued death information certificate claiming it was a result of a fall.

Read: Mumbai: Woman convict dies after jailors insert lathi into private parts

The issue was raised in the lower house through a calling-attention motion by NCP legislators Jayant Patil, Ajit Pawar and others.

Shetye died at JJ Hospital on June 23 after being allegedly beaten up by Byculla jail officials and staff over a dispute on two eggs and five loaves of bread.

A 20-member women Parliamentary Empowerment of Women Committee visited Byculla jail on July 24 to interact with inmates and enquired about the death.

Read: Mumbai inmate murder: Manjula Shetye was dragged towards barrack, CCTV footage shows