The Bombay High Court has disposed of a petition concerning the 2018 death of a 17-year-old boy in custody, following confirmation that the Maharashtra government has paid Rs 5 lakh in compensation to his mother.
On July 1, a division bench of Justice Sarang Kotwal and Justice Ashish Chavan closed the proceedings after noting that the monetary compensation under the state’s victim compensation scheme had been received and other primary grievances had been resolved.
Custody Assault And Death
The case originates from April 3, 2018, when Kurla Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel apprehended the minor on suspicion of mobile phone theft. He was handed over to the Wadala Government Railway Police (GRP) for investigation and subsequently placed in the Dongri Observation Home.
During a subsequent appearance before the Juvenile Justice Board, the boy’s mother stated that he had been assaulted while in custody. A medical examination conducted prior to his transfer to the GRP had also documented a hairline fracture. On April 14, 2018, the teenager died at the observation home after suffering from fever, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.
Criminal Investigation Underway
In February 2026, the Dongri police registered a First Information Report (FIR) charging four RPF officials with offences including causing hurt and criminal intimidation.
During the July 1 court hearing, the state prosecutor confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and stated that further charges would be added if more offences are uncovered. The prosecutor also assured the court that action would be taken against any other individuals found to be involved as the investigation progresses.
Gaurav Bhawnani, the advocate representing the mother, informed the court that he will separately pursue other requests made in the petition, including directions to appoint officers under the Juvenile Justice Act.
