Mounting levels of custodial deaths in India are alarming citizens and advocates alike. Experts say violations of laws against custodial torture are commonplace and that many police consider violence a legitimate tool.

In the last two decades, 1,888 custodial deaths have been reported across India, with 893 cases registered against police personnel, while a mere 358 police officers and justice officials were formally accused.

Just 26 policemen were convicted in this period, official records show.