The death of a 34-year-old Muslim man at a police station in northwest Delhi’s Jahangirpuri has sparked outrage, with his family alleging that he was beaten to death in custody and demanding strict action against the police personnel involved.
“Police Beat Him for Hours”: Family’s Allegation
Anish, a resident of Bhalswa Dairy who worked at Azadpur Sabzi Mandi, was picked up by police in the early hours, according to his family. They claim he had left home around 1 am for work, carrying money for mandi purchases, when he was stopped by police during patrolling.
His relatives allege that he was taken to the police station and assaulted for several hours.
“They caught him on the way and took him inside. From early morning till around 9 or 10 am, they kept beating him. After that, he died,” a family member claimed.
Outside the Jahangirpuri police station, scenes of grief unfolded as women from the family wept and demanded justice. Anish’s mother, in tears, said, “My son was completely fine when he left home. Police have beaten him to death. We want those responsible to be punished.”
The family also alleged that Anish’s friend, who was with him at the time, had informed them about the alleged assault. However, they now claim that the friend is missing.
“They picked up both of them. My son is dead, and the other boy is nowhere to be found,” a relative said, raising further suspicion over the incident.
Three Children Left Behind
Anish is survived by his wife and three young daughters, the eldest around 8–9 years old, another about 6, and a toddler. His family said he was the sole breadwinner and deeply attached to his children.
“He loved his daughters a lot. Now they are left without a father,” a relative said.
Family Protests Outside Police Station
The family and local residents have been protesting outside the Jahangirpuri police station for hours, refusing to leave until action is taken. They said they have met senior officers but are not satisfied with the response.
“Our only demand is that the policemen who beat him should be arrested. We want justice,” a family member said.
Police Say ‘No Injury Marks, Dehydration Suspected’
Delhi Police, however, have denied allegations of custodial violence. According to officials, Anish was brought to the police station around 3:30 am for verification during routine patrolling. They said he complained of uneasiness and was given water, but his condition worsened, and he was taken to Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital, where he died. Police claim that initial medical reports show no external injuries and suggest dehydration as the likely cause, adding that the exact reason will be confirmed after the post-mortem.
Probe Ordered, Questions Remain
An inquiry has been initiated, and the post-mortem report is awaited. However, the family continues to question the circumstances of his detention and death.
“Why was he stopped? What happened inside the police station? We won’t leave until we get answers,” a relative said.
The incident has heightened tensions in the area, with locals backing the family’s demand for a fair and transparent investigation.
