In a shocking series of events, officials from the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) have exposed a dark and disturbing reality lurking within five rehabilitation centers in and around Bengaluru. According to a report by The Hindu, inspections carried out on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, revealed widespread and severe violations, including allegations of illegal detention, torture, and inhuman treatment of residents under the guise of rehabilitation.
The raids, which were initiated based on a complaint, uncovered a grim picture. Officials found residents who had allegedly been beaten, while two others were discovered bedridden with open wounds, receiving no medical attention whatsoever. These centers, which included Mother Ammu Foundation, Belaku Social Service, and others, completely lacked medical facilities, qualified staff, and even basic amenities. A senior police officer involved in the raid confirmed that some residents with serious ailments were not given their required medication, and their families were kept in the dark about their deteriorating health.
A Prison for the Unwanted
Perhaps the most disturbing finding was that many of the residents were not addicts at all. The investigation revealed that these centers were allegedly being used by families to illegally confine relatives to settle civil disputes. One rescued victim, 50-year-old Krishne Gowda, alleged that his wife and her family forcibly admitted him in December 2023. He claimed this was done "on false grounds to stop him from attending court hearings related to a long-standing property dispute," despite him being mentally fit and having no history of substance abuse.
In another heartbreaking case, a youth told police he was sent to a center by his own mother simply for his "addiction of mobile games and behavioural issues."
These personal stories paint a horrifying picture of individuals being stripped of their freedom for personal gain, with the centers acting as private prisons rather than places of healing. Officials noted that many detainees were held without any proper medical oversight or legal process, turning the concept of rehabilitation into a nightmare.
Authorities Take Action
In response to these grave findings, authorities have begun to take action. As many as three FIRs have been filed against the accused, with charges including wrongful confinement and harassment. The SHRC has directed the local police to conduct a thorough investigation and take legal action against those responsible.
Furthermore, the commission has called out the district administration for its failure to conduct regular monitoring and inspections, which are mandatory by law. This lack of oversight allowed these alleged atrocities to continue unchecked. The SHRC is now demanding answers and has recommended immediate measures to overhaul the conditions and bring justice to the victims who suffered silently behind closed doors.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/following-shrc-raid-police-register-firs-against-rehab-centres-in-bengaluru-for-illegal-detention-physical-abuse-and-harassment/article69714362.ece