Youth dies, another hurt after ‘jumping’ from police vehicle
A 19-year-old youth died and another suffered injuries after they allegedly jumped out of a police vehicle in the Vasant Kunj North area here, a senior police officer said on Wednesday.
The incident took place when the duo was being taken to a lock-up. It sparked public outrage and allegations of police brutality. According to the police, the duo, identified as Ravi Sahni (19) and Vikas, alias Majnu (28), were arrested on Tuesday afternoon in connection with the arms and vehicle theft case.
They were intercepted by a motorcycle patrol team around 3 pm after reportedly acting suspiciously and attempting to flee. The police apprehended them after a brief chase.
The police claimed that a country-made pistol and live cartridge were recovered from Vikas. The motorcycle they were riding was allegedly found to be stolen.
The arrests were processed at the Kapashera police station and both suspects were medically examined before being transported to the Vasant Kunj North police lock-up in a government vehicle.
The situation took a tragic turn near the police station when, as per official reports, both men “suddenly jumped” out of the slow-moving van in an attempt to escape.
“Ravi sustained critical injuries and was declared dead on arrival at IGI Hospital. Vikas reportedly suffered only minor abrasions and remains under medical care,” DCP (south-west) Surender Choudhary said.
The news of Ravi’s death spread quickly, prompting a heated response from his family and local residents. Crowd gathered on the Samalkha-Kapashera road on Wednesday morning, blocking traffic and clashing with the police by pelting stones. Family members, skeptical of the official account, have alleged custodial torture.
One of the family members alleged that the accused were picked up from their house. “We were later informed that they were being taken for medical examination. At night, we were told that Ravi had died. We want justice and the guilty to be punished.”
The police have initiated legal proceedings and confirmed that a judicial inquiry is underway. As the situation remained volatile, DCP Choudhary visited the protest site and urged protesters to stay calm. “We appeal to the public not to block roads,” Choudhary said, adding that they were committed to maintaining law and order while ensuring a thorough investigation into the incident.
Delhi