GS4 · UPSC Mains

Lloyd is an honest and upright officer working as the Superintendent of Police in a state, which is notorious for gang culture and criminal activities. Based on his impeccable track record, he was transferred to the state capital four months ago. His wife and daughter are also happy as the capital city is comparatively safer compared to all his previous postings. Recently, a criminal who was under trial and facing charges in a number of serious cases, was killed by some people in the capital city while he was being taken to the court. Due to the poor record of the state police in terms of death of criminals in police custody, various human rights organizations are demanding a fair enquiry in the case. They have approached the courts in this matter and subsequently a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed by the state government to look into this issue. Since the police officers escorting the criminal during this incident are from the police station that comes under Lloyd's jurisdiction, he will be required to depose before the SIT with all the details. While investigating, he came across details, which clearly establish a nexus between a prominent politician and the criminal. He prepared a report and was planning to share it with the SIT. On the basis of his findings, the nexus of the concerned criminal with the politician would be exposed and the politician may also face charges. Lloyd's senior asks him about the findings of the report and advises him to drop the information implicating the politician from the report. He informs that the politician mentioned in the report is a very prominent figure in public life, and shares good relations with all the major political parties in the state. His senior further informs that this will bring him in the good books of those in positions of power. Further, this will also help him remain posted in the capital city, which ensures the safety of his wife and daughter. (a) What are the options available with Lloyd to deal with the situation? (b) Critically evaluate each of the options and identify the most appropriate one for Lloyd to adopt. (c) What measures would you suggest to prevent deaths in police custody

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