One of the key accused in the Dadri lynching case died of kidney and respiratory failure at a Delhi hospital on Tuesday. Although doctors suspected that Ravin was also suffering from dengue, his medical report are yet to confirm it.
Medical Superintendent of Lok Nayak Jaiprakash Hospital told PTI that he was was taken there “in a very bad condition, with kidney failure and high blood sugar level.” The 22-year-old jailed accused was first taken to a district hospital in Noida on Tuesday morning and later shifted to LJP Hospital when his condition deteriorated.
His family, however, has alleged foul play on the part of jail authorities, reported NDTV. According to them, Ravi was assaulted while he was in judicial custody. According to The Indian Express, people from his village have also made similar allegations. District magistrate NP Singh has sought a report from the jail superintendent. "This is a very sad incident and we are looking into it. We have formed a committee to examine the matter," he told the Times of India.
Sanjay Rana, a local Bharatiya Janata Party leader, also supported the family’s claim. He told The Hindu, “This is a custodial death. We will demand further probe in this.” Ravi’s post-mortem report is still awaited.
Ravin was allegedly a part of the mob that had dragged out and lynched Mohammad Akhlaq (pictured above) from his house in Dadri's Bishada village on September 28, 2015, on the suspicion of killing a calf and eating beef. The incident triggered communal tension, which in turn led to countrywide protests. As many as 18 people were arrested in connection with the case. Three of them are out on bail.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!