Srinagar: The family of Makhan Din, a 25-year-old resident of Kathua district in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, has refused financial compensation following his death in police custody, demanding justice instead. Zona Begum, Makhan Din’s wife, who is four months pregnant, is left with their two daughters to face an uncertain future.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, Makhan Din was arrested by the Indian Special Operation Group and allegedly tortured, leading to his death by suicide on February 6, 2025, in the Perody area of Kathua. His death has triggered outrage and calls for a thorough investigation.

Makhan Din’s father, Muhammad Mureed, claims that the police detained him and his son on baseless accusations of being Over Ground Workers linked to resistance groups. He described the brutal treatment they endured and said his son’s ordeal left him traumatized.

Before his death, Makhan Din recorded a video asserting his innocence and detailing the pressure to confess to false charges. The video has gone viral, amplifying calls for accountability.

The family has rejected financial compensation, insisting on legal action against the officers involved. They allege continued police intimidation even after Makhan Din’s death, with attempts to suppress the truth.

A complaint has been lodged with the Human Rights Commission by Advocate Nikhil Padha, highlighting this and another custodial death in Baramulla, stressing urgent intervention concerning human rights violations in the region.