Hyderabad: The Human Rights Forum (HRF) is demanding an urgent judicial inquiry into the alleged encounter killing of Sheikh Riaz in Nizamabad, Telangana. This move intensifies the scrutiny of what activists brand a “fake encounter” and reflects mounting concerns over police violence in the state. The incident has polarised public opinion, ignited debate over extrajudicial police actions, and drawn a sharp focus onto human rights interventions in Telangana. The petition filed by HRF challenges the police narrative, seeking an independent, court-monitored investigation and emphasising the need for transparency. Human rights advocates argue that the manner of Riaz’s death is emblematic of a dangerous drift toward impunity.