Author: K. Ashok Vardhan Shetty
Published in: The Hindu
Theme: Critique of custodial torture and the need for humane, evidence-based policing in India.
🔹 Main Argument:
The article contrasts two styles of policing:
Sherlock Holmes style: Evidence-based, methodical, rational. Dirty Harry style: Brutal, coercive, impatient, and aimed at quick confessions, often through torture.
The author warns that India’s police often operate like Dirty Harry, prioritizing speed over justice, and frequently using custodial torture, especially against marginalized communities.
🔹 Key Points:
Custodial Torture in India: 687 deaths in police custody between 2018–2023 (about 2 deaths/week). Highest deaths: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, UP. Common victims: Dalits, tribals, slum dwellers, migrants. Many deaths are hidden as suicides or illness. Need for Reform: India hasn’t ratified the UN Convention Against Torture. Ranked as a “high-risk” country in the Global Torture Index 2025. Parliament must enact a strong anti-torture law. Why Torture Doesn’t Work: Scientific evidence: Torture impairs memory and cognition. Example: French torture in Algeria and CIA’s “black sites” yielded little useful information. FBI’s PEACE model (used in UK, Norway): Focuses on calm, respectful questioning → more reliable confessions. Cultural Problem: Popular films glorify police brutality. Society tolerates torture as a quick-fix for justice. Urgent need to replace fear-based policing with professionalism and accountability.
🔹 Conclusion:
India must move away from the Dirty Harry model of justice. Torture is not just unethical; it’s also ineffective and weakens justice. The Sherlock Holmes model — professional, scientific, and rights-respecting policing — is the only path to true justice and rule of law.
