U.P: 13-year-old loses eyesight after alleged custodial torture, family approaches NHRC

October 7, 2025 by News Desk

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A disturbing case of alleged custodial torture has emerged from Muzaffarnagar, where a 13-year-old boy reportedly lost vision in one eye after being allegedly beaten while in police custody.

The boy’s father, Showkat Ahmad, said the incident occurred after his son made an announcement at a local mosque about the reopening of their chicken shop, which had been closed for two weeks. “He went to the mosque and told people that chicken would be sold at ₹140 per kg. Someone complained, and he was picked up by police,” he said. Neighbours later informed the family about the boy being taken away, a claim supported by nearby CCTV footage.

“When I went to the police station, my son was behind bars with his feet tied. The police told me it was a small matter and asked us to return later,” the father said. “But when we came back, he had injuries all over his body and complained that he couldn’t see properly.”

Police initially claimed that the boy possessed a country-made pistol, which the family denied. “It was just a picture saved on his phone. My son told me that the police beat him, videographed him, and forced him to admit ownership,” the father added.

Medical reports confirmed that the boy lost vision in one eye due to trauma sustained during custody. The family has registered complaints with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), and local authorities. Showkat Ahmad further alleged, “The inspector has been threatening me for filing the case.”

Muzaffarnagar Superintendent of Police, Sanjai Kumar, said, “The boy’s announcement hurt the sentiments of some locals. Our preliminary investigation suggests he had a pre-existing eye condition and was under treatment for the past four years. The investigation is underway to find out more.”

A local SHO also said a fine was imposed on the boy’s father “to maintain law and order,” but emphasized that a detailed investigation is ongoing.

Human rights observers have expressed concern over the alleged misconduct and called for accountability, warning that such incidents undermine public trust in law enforcement and endanger children.