Youth dies at Balurghat rehab centre, family alleges “beaten to death”

Tension gripped Balurghat in South Dinajpur after the unnatural death of a 26-year-old man undergoing treatment at a private de-addiction centre, with his family alleging that he was beaten to death inside the facility. The deceased, Israfiul Haque from Chopra, had been admitted to the centre on April 27. The incident triggered protests and vandalism at the premises on Friday, prompting police intervention.

According to family members, the centre initially informed them that Israfiul had fallen ill and was admitted to Balurghat District Hospital. Shortly afterward, they were told he had died of a heart attack. However, before the family could reach the hospital, news of his death had already spread. Upon seeing the body, the family alleged multiple injury marks, including severe head injuries and bleeding from the ear, raising suspicion of physical assault.

As the news spread, anger escalated among local residents and relatives, who stormed the rehab centre and vandalised the property. Panic spread among other patients admitted at the facility, many of whom reportedly fled fearing for their safety. The situation quickly turned volatile, with the area witnessing heightened tension.

Police from Balurghat Police Station reached the spot with a large force and brought the situation under control after dispersing the crowd. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination at Balurghat District Hospital, with the report expected to determine the exact cause of death. Police deployment has been increased in the area to prevent further unrest.

The family has initiated the process of filing a formal complaint, demanding strict action against those responsible. The incident has intensified concerns over the functioning and oversight of private de-addiction centres, with calls for accountability growing louder in the region.