In a stark reflection of disparities in India’s justice system, two custodial death cases from neighbouring regions in Tamil Nadu have followed sharply different trajectories — one marked by prolonged delay, the other by relatively swift accountability.

“My wait to seek justice for my son Agnello alias Richie has only grown longer. Twelve years on, the court has only now upheld murder charges against eight policemen. The trial is yet to begin and will take more time before a verdict is pronounced,” said Leonard Valdaris, 63, a resident of Dharavi. Agnello Valdaris, 25, died on April 18, 2014, allegedly after being tortured in custody by the Wadala railway police.