The local administration in Kanpur suspended 14 police officers after a Dalit man was found dead under suspicious circumstances in police custody, reported PTI. The 26-year-old was picked up for questioning in a loot case on Wednesday. His family members have filed a case regarding his death.

Valmiki's brother, Nirmal, was also interrogated by the police, but was later let off. "We were beaten as if we were footballs. They said to me, either confess or we will kill your brother," he said, according to NDTV.

Kamal Valmiki was found dead on Thursday when his sister went to visit him at the Ahirwan police station. Valmiki's sister Rekha said, "He was subjected to third degree torture resulting in his death." A case of murder has been registered against five constable who brought Valmiki to the police station. Those suspended also include Yogendra Solanki, staff-sub-inspector.

After news of the death spread, people gathered outside the police station and pelted stones in protest. Groups of protestors also blocked National Highway 2, causing traffic congestion on the route. Valmiki was picked up with another man, who is believed to be missing. Senior Superintendent of Police, Kanpur, Shalabh Mathur said investigators are trying to locate the missing man.