The discussion defines torture as any act intentionally causing severe physical or mental pain or suffering, often for obtaining information, punishment, or intimidation. While India is a signatory to the UN Convention Against Torture, the Prevention of Torture Bill, 2017, aiming to criminalise torture and align domestic law with the convention, is still pending. Existing Indian Penal Code provisions address acts that can be considered torture, but they lack specific provisions for torture committed by public servants and don't fully cover the UN definition.