A 34-year-old domestic worker from West Bengal and her husband were allegedly beaten for three hours by seven police officers inside the Varthur Police Station in Bengaluru. The shocking incident has sparked outrage after the woman, Sundari Bibi, lodged a complaint with the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission, accusing the police of serious abuse of power.

Accused of stealing diamond ring over CCTV footage

The case began when Sundari’s employer, a software professional, accused her of stealing a diamond ring. The allegation came after CCTV footage showed Sundari picking up a ₹100 note from the balcony. She reportedly explained that she had intended to hand it to her employer, but the employer used the footage to file a theft complaint, prompting police to summon the couple.

‘Three-hour torture’ at the station

The alleged assault took place around 9 am on October 30 and involved four male and three female officers. Despite pleading innocence, Sundari and her husband, a BBMP garbage collector, were detained and beaten with lathis. Witnesses later said Sundari’s cries for help were heard outside the station.

Local residents and migrant workers alerted social worker R. Kaleemullah, who confronted the officers by phone. The beating reportedly stopped only after his intervention. The couple was released at 7 pm, with the police allegedly warning them to stay silent.

Medical records confirm serious injuries

Following the incident, Sundari suffered from fever, severe body pain, and kidney issues. Initially too frightened to speak, the couple remained silent for three days before seeking treatment at Victoria Hospital and later at Bowring Hospital, where doctors registered a Medico-Legal Case (MLC).

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh confirmed that medical evidence supports the woman’s claims.

State orders inquiry into police conduct

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parmeshwar has demanded a detailed report from the city police chief. The commissioner has instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Whitefield) to investigate the alleged assault.

In her complaint, Sundari has sought strict legal action against the seven accused officers and protection to continue working in Bengaluru without fear of retaliation.