Bombay High Court Rules Out Police Misconduct In Anuj Thapan's Custodial Death Linked To Salman Khan Incident

On April 14, 2024, a disturbing event occurred near Salman Khan's Galaxy Apartment in Bandra, where four gunshots were heard. This incident quickly drew police and public attention. An 18-year-old named Anuj Thapan was arrested in connection with the case. Tragically, Thapan was later found dead in police custody, leading his mother, Rita Devi, to accuse the police of foul play.

The Bombay High Court, with Justices Revati Mohite-Dere and Prithviraj K Chavan presiding, examined the circumstances surrounding Thapan's death. After reviewing a magisterial inquiry report, they found no evidence of police misconduct. CCTV footage from May 1 showed Thapan entering a bathroom alone before he was discovered dead, suggesting he took his own life.

The court scrutinized the details of Thapan's detention at the Mumbai Crime Branch lock-up. Despite his mother's allegations and her call for a CBI investigation, the court saw no reason for the police to target Thapan. He was not the main suspect in the shooting incident. The judges questioned why the police would harm someone not directly involved.

During proceedings, Devi's lawyer argued that Thapan was healthy and unlikely to commit suicide. However, the court pointed out that mental strength differs from physical health. They suggested unseen pressures might have led him to despair. The judges dismissed foul play claims due to lack of evidence showing coercion or involvement by others.

The court highlighted the complexity of such cases and stressed considering all factors, including emotional impacts on families like Thapan's. They warned against letting emotions cloud judgment while acknowledging a grieving mother's suspicions but emphasized relying on facts and circumstances.

The findings revealed challenges in uncovering truth amid emotional turmoil following gunfire outside Salman Khan's home. While dismissing police culpability claims in Thapan's death, it left his family seeking answers and justice amidst their loss.