The parents of Ram Singh, the man accused of the gang rape and murder of a woman on a New Delhi bus, who was today found hanged in his prison cell, say their son was killed.
Police reported the 34-year-old committed suicide after he was found hanged with his own clothes in Tihar jail.
But his family dispute the claim, saying Singh was not suicidal and his injured hand would prevent him from killing himslef.
Singh was among the five men and a juvenile awaiting trial for the brutal attack on the 23-year-old trainee physiotherapist in the Indian capital in December last year.
The assault triggered nationwide protests and an intense debate about rampant crime against women in India.
After Singh was found dead India's deputy home minister, RPN Singh, said an inquiry had been ordered into the suicide, according to the Press Trust of India.
Singh's family and lawyer alleged foul play over his death.
His lawyer VK Anand said: 'There were no circumstances which could have led to Ram Singh committing suicide. There was no mental stress. He was very happy.'
Lawyers for the defendants had previously accused police of beating confessions out of the men.
Singh's father, Mangelal Singh, said his son had been raped in prison by other inmates and had been repeatedly threatened by inmates and guards.
So, guys do you think he got off easily ?
By this i mean that do you think he got off easily by not facing the law, the court and the punishment etc.
Because that is something i have been hearing about in many places and sites.
I think he got off easily !
Vidhi
(Catty)
Anupamaa
Jhanak
