Outrage as Bengal Police Parade Suspected Criminals in Their Underwear Through Streets

Video footage showing West Bengal police parading suspected criminals through the streets in a semi-nude state has triggered widespread outrage and renewed concerns about police conduct and human rights in India.

Over recent days, police in North, South, and Central Howrah have been observed marching detainees in their underwear through public streets, apparently as a form of humiliation and deterrence. The images, which spread rapidly on social media, have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations, legal experts, and political opponents of the state government.

"Parading individuals in this manner is a violation of their fundamental dignity and a breach of legal procedure," said a human rights lawyer. "Regardless of the crimes they are accused of, they have not been convicted. They are entitled to be treated with basic humanity."

The West Bengal police have defended the practice, arguing that it serves as a deterrent to crime and that the individuals in question were repeat offenders. But critics point out that India's legal system provides for punishment through due process — not through public shaming by law enforcement.

The incident raises broader questions about police accountability in India. The country's police forces are overworked, under-resourced, and often operate with minimal oversight. Instances of custodial violence and extra-legal actions are not uncommon, and accountability mechanisms remain weak.

This is Dr. Raj Patel for Global1 News, reporting from Mumbai. 🇮🇳