Indian-Origin Man Dies Following Arrest Incident in Adelaide
A 42-year-old man of Indian origin tragically passed away days after an encounter with Australian police officers in Adelaide. The incident occurred on May 29, when the man, identified as Gaurav Kundi from Modbury North, was hospitalized with a brain injury and succumbed to his condition on Thursday.
Details Surrounding the Incident
According to reports, Kundi and his wife, Amritpal Kaur, were involved in a public argument during which Kundi, who had consumed alcohol, laid down on the ground. Ms. Kaur mentioned that during the disagreement, Kundi had pushed her slightly. The confrontation attracted police intervention as officers apparently perceived it as a domestic violence situation.
Ms. Kaur recorded part of the arrest on her phone. The video captures Kundi asserting, “I didn’t do anything wrong,” while law enforcement restrained him. Ms. Kaur’s recording stops after she witnessed an officer placing a knee on her husband’s neck, raising concerns about the force used during his detention.
Immediate Aftermath and Hospitalization
Following the arrest, Kundi became unresponsive. He was promptly transported to the Royal Adelaide Hospital, where he was placed under critical care until his death. Ms. Kaur described her alarming experience, saying, “I kept saying he’s not well, he’s not well, please don’t do this, just call the ambulance,” highlighting her distress at the situation.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigations
The South Australia Police stated that Kundi had “violently resisted” arrest but confirmed that neither a taser nor a firearm was employed during the incident. The department conveyed a current stance of satisfaction with the officers’ conduct.
Nevertheless, an internal investigation has been launched alongside a Commissioner’s Inquiry to thoroughly examine police policies, training, and response strategies. Police Commissioner Grant Stevens emphasized the comprehensive review underway to ensure accountability and proper procedures.
Community Impact and Wider Reactions
Kundi was a father of two, and his untimely death has drawn comparisons to high-profile cases of police restraint internationally, including the 2020 death of George Floyd in the United States. The incident has reignited discussions on law enforcement tactics and the handling of mental health and public safety situations.
The family and community await the outcome of the official investigations as calls for transparency and justice grow louder.
