The family of a Muslim minor from Botad, Gujarat, who was allegedly subjected to custodial torture, has moved the Gujarat High Court seeking justice after the Supreme Court redirected the case. The petition is scheduled to be heard on Monday, October 6.
The 17-year-old boy was detained last month by Botad police on suspicion of theft. His family alleges he was illegally held for more than 10 days, beaten, threatened with sexual assault, and subjected to electric shocks while being denied food and water.
He was later discharged from Zydus Hospital in Ahmedabad in critical condition and is now recovering at home. His injuries include kidney failure, seizures, temporary loss of eyesight, and severe mental trauma, according to the petition.
“My brother was taken in for no crime, beaten mercilessly, and left fighting for his life. We want justice and accountability,” said his sister, who filed the petition.
The family has sought a court-monitored investigation by a special investigation team or the Central Bureau of Investigation, compensation, and strict action against the police officers involved. The petition also calls for counselling and protection for the boy.
Advocates Rohin Bhatt, Maharshi H. Patel, and Priyanka V. Limbachiya, representing the petitioner, argue that the case highlights violations of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which requires minors to be placed under a child welfare officer and produced before a Juvenile Justice Board within 24 hours.
This story was originally published in maktoobmedia.com. Read the full story here.