The
debate is whether it is correct to use handcuffs, or, for that matter, fetter
someone in irons. The concern chimis submitted to the 86th
National Assembly was relevant, but half‐baked. They wanted the use of
handcuffs to stop altogether. They presumably looked at handcuffing only from
the humanitarian point of view, which is all but complete.
Yes,
handcuffing is inhuman and degrading. But when there are justifiable grounds
for use of handcuffs, it makes sense. The argument should, therefore, fall
somewhere between when it should be used and how.
To
fetter arrestees and detainees in irons is no exception to the Bhutanese
security system. Security personnel around the world use handcuffs and manacles
for various reasons. Primarily, handcuffs are used for security reasons.
Desperate arrestees or detainees can be up to anything. They can pose a physical
risk to security officials and people around. They can attempt escape, they can
attempt suicide, or, they can even display unhealthy scenes in public. It is in
the interest of both security officials and public that handcuffs are used. In
some countries, hardened criminals are handcuffed even in court. There are
stories of security officials being physically attacked by arrestees and
detainees to make their escape. How many of us have not heard of security
officials jailed for dereliction of duty just because a detainee under their watch
has escaped? Therefore, handcuffs.
