**US Mercenary Granted Special Food Privileges in Indian Jail**
In a notable ruling on Monday, a Delhi court has permitted Matthew Aaron VanDyke, a US mercenary detained for alleged anti-India activities, to receive food of his choice while incarcerated at Tihar Jail. This decision was made on humanitarian and medical grounds, as VanDyke's legal team argued that his health had deteriorated due to the prison's standard diet.
VanDyke, who was arrested in March by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) along with six Ukrainian mercenaries, had filed a plea requesting access to specific food items that he is accustomed to. His lawyers cited Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, asserting that this includes the dignity of individuals in judicial custody.
The court's ruling allows VanDyke to receive a variety of food items, including chicken, red meat, seafood, uncooked noodles, pasta, uncooked rice, potatoes, onions, beans, spices, vegetables, olive oil, toned milk, bread, butter, and bottled water. However, the court has restricted the provision of non-vegetarian items. Additionally, VanDyke will be allowed to use special cooking utensils and will have access to a cook who can prepare his meals according to his preferences.
VanDyke's legal representatives highlighted that he had already lost 14 kilograms due to the "spicy, oily, deep-fried and greasy" food typically served to inmates, which he found unsuitable for his dietary needs. The court's decision is seen as a rare exception to the standard regulations governing food for pre-trial detainees at Tihar Jail, which typically adheres to a prescribed menu without allowances for individual preferences unless medically justified.
In addition to the food provisions, the court has ordered prison authorities to ensure VanDyke receives mosquito protection and an electric kettle, further indicating a consideration for his comfort and well-being during his detention.
The charges against VanDyke and his Ukrainian associates stem from their alleged activities in a restricted border area of India's northeastern region, where they reportedly crossed into Myanmar without the necessary permits to provide drone training to ethnic military groups. These groups are believed to have connections to armed insurgents operating in India’s northeast.
VanDyke is known as the founder of Sons of Liberty International, an organization that offers military training in conflict zones. His previous involvement in conflict includes participation with Libyan rebels during the 2011 uprising.
This ruling by the Delhi court reflects a balance between the legal framework governing prison conditions and the humanitarian considerations raised by VanDyke's legal team. The case continues to draw attention due to its implications for the treatment of foreign nationals detained in India and the broader context of international relations concerning military activities in sensitive regions.