Tue Jul 01 07:03:23 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

**Headline: Tamil Nadu Police Under Scrutiny After Temple Guard’s Custodial Death; Case Transferred to CB-CID**

**CHENNAI, July 1, 2025** – A wave of outrage is sweeping Tamil Nadu following the death of 27-year-old Ajith Kumar, a temporary security guard at a Sivaganga temple, allegedly due to custodial torture. Five policemen have been arrested and charged with murder in connection with the incident.

Tamil Nadu Director-General of Police (DGP) Shankar Jiwal has ordered the case to be transferred to the CB-CID (Crime Branch-Criminal Investigation Department) amidst growing concerns. The Sivaganga Superintendent of Police (SP) Ashish Rawat has been shifted to compulsory wait in the office of the DGP, Chennai, and the Ramanathapuram SP G. Chandeesh has been given additional charge of Sivaganga district.

Kumar was taken into custody after a woman reported missing gold and cash from her car at the temple. Police claim he fell ill during questioning, while his family alleges he was beaten to death. A post-mortem report reportedly indicated multiple injuries on the victim’s body.

Political pressure is mounting. BJP Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagenthran has appealed to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for an independent investigation, citing concerns about custodial protocol and potential evidence suppression. TVK president Vijay has called for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Madras High Court’s supervision and criticized Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who also holds the Home portfolio, accusing the state government of initially attempting to protect the accused.

The incident has sparked broader debate about custodial deaths in Tamil Nadu, with opposition parties demanding a judicial inquiry, compensation for the victim’s family, and a “white paper” detailing all alleged custodial deaths in the state over the past four years. The DMK government faces increasing pressure to address the concerns and ensure accountability within the police force.

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