TGHRC Moves Swiftly with Suo Motu Action on Shaik Riyaz Encounter Killing

(By Syed Ali Taher Abedi)

Hyderabad, October 21, 2025 — The Telangana State Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has taken Suo motu cognizance of media reports concerning the alleged encounter death of one Sheik Riyaz, who was reportedly involved in the murder of police constable M. Pramod Kumar. The Commission, acting on its mandate to safeguard the right to life enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution, has registered a case on its own motion to ascertain the legality and circumstances of the police action.

According to reports, the deceased, Sheik Riyaz, was recently arrested in connection with the killing of constable Pramod Kumar. During custody, Riyaz allegedly attempted to snatch the service weapon of an Armed Reserve constable and tried to escape. The police claim that they were compelled to open fire in self-defence, resulting in his instantaneous death.

Taking note of the seriousness of the allegations, the TGHRC has sought a comprehensive report from the Director General of Police, Telangana, detailing the sequence of events that culminated in the fatal encounter. The Commission has specifically directed the DGP to clarify whether a magisterial or judicial inquiry has been initiated in accordance with established legal procedures.

Further, the TGHRC has mandated that the authorities submit certified copies of the First Information Report (FIR), the post-mortem examination report, and any other relevant documents by November 24, 2025. The Commission has also emphasized the necessity of ensuring that the encounter conforms strictly to the guidelines laid down by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. State of Maharashtra (2014) and those of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

The Commission’s action underscores its vigilance in ensuring accountability and transparency in all cases of custodial or encounter deaths, reaffirming the constitutional doctrine that the State, as the protector of rights, cannot act as the violator thereof. The forthcoming report from the State police is expected to shed light on whether the principles of legality, proportionality, and due process were adhered to in this case.