Indian-Origin Man Dies in Adelaide Police Incident: Authorities Back Officers’ Actions

Adelaide, Australia – A tragic incident in Adelaide has led to the death of Gaurav Kundi, a 42-year-old man of Indian origin, following an encounter with local police. The incident, which occurred last month, has sparked outrage and raised questions about police conduct, despite support from senior officials.

On October 30, a minor verbal altercation took place between Gaurav Kundi and his wife, Amritpal Kaur, on a road near Penham Road in Adelaide. Patrolling officers, mistaking the situation for domestic violence, followed the couple to their home to take Gaurav into custody. Despite Amritpal’s insistence that it was only a minor disagreement and no violence had occurred, the officers proceeded with the arrest. Gaurav pleaded that he had committed no crime, but his requests were ignored.

During the arrest attempt, one officer allegedly pressed their knee forcefully on Gaurav’s neck while pinning him against a police vehicle. Gaurav lost consciousness at the scene, and the incident was recorded by Amritpal on her phone. He was rushed to Royal Adelaide Hospital, where he succumbed to injuries to his brain and neck nerves.

The incident has drawn comparisons to the George Floyd case in the United States, with Amritpal alleging excessive force by the police. However, South Australia Police Acting Assistant Commissioner John DeCandia and Premier Peter Malinauskas have defended the officers, stating they acted appropriately under the circumstances.

South Australia Police Commissioner Grant Stevens has ordered a high-level investigation, with Major Crime and Internal Investigation detectives reviewing the case. Authorities have clarified that no firearms or tasers were used during the incident.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Indian diaspora in Australia, with community members demanding justice for Gaurav, who leaves behind two children and a grieving family. The incident has reignited discussions about police accountability and the treatment of minority communities in Australia.