Berhampur, June 1: Serious allegations of custodial torture and death have surfaced against the police in Odisha's Ganjam district after a youth who was allegedly detained for several days died while undergoing treatment.

The deceased has been identified as Sushanta Sahu of Subulia village under the jurisdiction of Kabisuryanagar Police Station.

According to family members, Sushanta, who worked at a stone quarry, was picked up by police on May 25 in connection with a dispute at the worksite. The family has alleged that he was illegally detained at the police station until May 31 and subjected to severe physical torture during interrogation. They further claim that he was brutally beaten and even had hot water poured on his body.

The family alleges that when police finally handed Sushanta over to them on Saturday, his health condition was critical. He was immediately shifted to M.K.C.G. Medical College and Hospital for treatment, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Following his death, family members and villagers staged a protest in front of the police station, demanding justice and strict action against those responsible. The incident has triggered outrage in the area, with protesters alleging custodial violence and seeking an impartial investigation into the circumstances leading to the youth's death.

Police authorities have not yet publicly responded to the allegations. The exact cause of death is expected to be determined following a post-mortem examination, while demands are growing for a high-level probe into the case.