Man dies days after arrest in Thoothukudi; family alleges custodial torture
A 24-year-old man died in Thoothukudi following his recent arrest, prompting his family to allege custodial torture. While police claim the death was due to a pre-existing medical condition, a formal investigation and post-mortem have been initiated.
Why it matters
Allegations of custodial death are significant human rights issues that often lead to public unrest and calls for police accountability.
A 24-year-old man, who was arrested by the Thoothukudi South police on Friday (July 17, 2026), died at the Thoothukudi Government Medical College Hospital (TKGMCH) in the early hours of Thursday (July 23).
The deceased was identified as Arunachalam, 24, a habitual offender from Amutha Nagar in Thoothukudi. He had previously been arrested in connection with the possession of contraband. During a recent raid, the police arrested him for the illegal sale of liquor bottles and seized around 120 bottles from his possession.
He was released on station bail on Friday (July 17) evening and was later admitted to the TKGMCH by his family members. Hospital sources said he was undergoing treatment in the neurosurgery ward.
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