Seventeen-year-old Aryan Makhiya reportedly beaten mercilessly by Botad police over theft allegations; family claims grandfather also assaulted
BOTAD – A disturbing incident has emerged from Gujarat’s Botad district, where police allegedly tortured a 17-year-old Muslim boy, Aryan Makhiya, in custody for nine consecutive days over allegations of theft. The family has also accused authorities of assaulting Aryan’s grandfather during the ordeal.
The case has drawn sharp criticism from Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani, who demanded urgent action against the officers involved. “In any country, the biggest responsibility of the police is to maintain law and order and ensure that criminals are punished. But when the police themselves engage in criminal acts, how will the public fear the law?” Mevani said.
According to reports, Aryan was detained by Botad police on 19 August for questioning related to a theft case involving a girl. During custody, he was allegedly subjected to extreme physical abuse, including assault on his private parts, leaving him critically injured and fighting for his life.
Speaking to reporters, Mevani emphasised, “The child was kept in custody without informing the family, which is completely against the law. Such barbaric treatment raises serious questions about the police’s functioning and morality.”
The family claims that Aryan worked as a daily wage labourer to support them, highlighting the vulnerability of the minor and the gravity of the police’s alleged actions. “Not only was Aryan tortured, but my father was also beaten inside the police station,” the boy’s relative stated.
Mevani has called for swift legal proceedings against the officers responsible. “I demand that the Gujarat government, DGP, Home Secretary, and Home Minister immediately act in this case. From constables to SP, everyone involved in this inhuman act should be charged under custodial torture laws and sent to jail,” he asserted.
The shocking incident has reignited debate over custodial rights and the protection of minors in Gujarat, as public outrage grows over alleged police misconduct. Mevani urged authorities to restore faith in law enforcement by ensuring accountability for the accused officers.
While the boy remains in critical condition, the lack of immediate action against the accused officers has intensified public concern. Activists and legal experts have highlighted that such cases set a dangerous precedent, eroding trust in law enforcement among vulnerable communities.
The Botad Police have yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations, but the incident has drawn widespread condemnation across social and political circles.
