Karnataka: Ahmed Qureshi off dialysis, but his health still worries PFI activists

Mangaluru: Ahmed Qureshi, who was picked up by the police for involvement in the Prakash Poojary assault case and allegedly tortured for about a week, leaving his kidneys damaged, seems to be now making a full recovery.

Qureshi, who is presently being treated in the government Wenlock Hospital while in judicial custody, is reportedly no longer on dialysis as his kidneys have returned to normal. “Earlier Qureshi had a problem with his kidneys and underwent dialysis. But now his kidney functions are normal and dialysis has been stopped. Doctors are treating him only for the fever now,” said hospital sources.

While activists fighting for justice for Qureshi agree that his kidneys are returning to normal, they are worried the cure may not be permanent given the extent of his injuries.

“The condition of his kidney is better now after treatment and dialysis. But we are worried the problem could recur in future,” said United Muslim Front convenor, K Ashraf, adding, “ We condemn such police torture irrespective of the community the victim belongs to. We have taken on the fight to provide justice to Qureshi. But we also want to provide justice to other Muslim youth who have suffered similarly.”

Qureshi’s family has alleged he was tortured by the police while he was in their illegal custody for about a week.

Backed by various oganisations , the family has demanded suspension of all the Central Crime Branch officials who were responsible.

“It was because of the torture that Qureshi developed a kidney problem and demanded compensation from the government, besides an inquiry. The government has now ordered a CID inquiry into the case,” said sources.