Critically discuss the efficacy of existing mechanisms to handle torture cases in Indian policing and suggest reforms to mitigate such human rights abuses.

The current mechanisms to tackle torture and other human rights abuses in Indian policing include immediate action in torture cases, enquiries conducted by magistrates, the institution of criminal cases, filing of complaints against offending officers in court, mandatory CCTV surveillance in police premises, and the National Human Rights Commission serving as a human rights watchdog. Despite these measures, the problem of torture persists, pointing to systemic inefficiencies and the need for substantial reforms.

• A comprehensive cultural shift that prioritises human rights and condemns inhumane treatment.
• The establishment of Police Complaints Authorities in every state, as per the Supreme Court directive.
• Ratification of the UN Convention Against Torture, reaffirming India’s commitment to preventing and addressing such abuses.

Though it must be emphasised that many officers uphold human dignity and abhor torture, these reforms would further prop up their efforts, helping to bridge the gap between the theory of human rights guarantees and their challenging everyday reality.

The state carries the responsibility of mitigating this issue, acknowledging its prevalence and demonstrating the political will to bring about effective change. The measures proposed could herald a new chapter in Indian law enforcement, one where the dignity and rights of every individual, criminal or not, are respected.