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US Mercenary Seeks Special Meals in Tihar Jail

A US mercenary arrested by NIA complains of spicy jail food, seeks court permission to cook own meals. He claims health issues due to oily food.

Mumbai Alert · City Desk
Mumbai Alert · City Desk
City Desk · Mumbai Alert News · Thu, 09 July 2026 at 11:29 pm
US Mercenary Seeks Special Meals in Tihar Jail

A US mercenary, Matthew Aaron VanDyke, has approached a court seeking permission to prepare his own meals in Tihar Jail, where he is currently lodged. VanDyke, who was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), has complained that the jail food is too spicy and oily, causing him health issues.

According to his plea, VanDyke has lost significant weight since May 6, and is finding it difficult to cope with the jail food. He has requested the court to allow him to cook his own meals, citing dietary needs that are not being met by the jail authorities. VanDyke has specifically asked for chicken and fish to be included in his diet.

The court has taken note of VanDyke's plea and has issued notices to the Tihar Jail authorities and the NIA, seeking their response to the mercenary's demands. VanDyke has also requested specific cooking items and food supplies to be provided to him, so that he can prepare his own meals.

VanDyke's complaint highlights the issues faced by prisoners in Indian jails, where the food is often cited as a major concern. Many prisoners have complained of the poor quality of food, which can lead to health problems.

The Tihar Jail authorities have a responsibility to provide nutritious food to prisoners, and it remains to be seen how they will respond to VanDyke's plea. The NIA, which is investigating VanDyke's case, will also have to weigh in on the matter.

The court's decision on VanDyke's plea will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for other prisoners who may be facing similar issues with jail food. VanDyke's case has already garnered significant attention, given his background as a US mercenary.

In recent years, there have been several instances of prisoners complaining about the quality of food in Indian jails. The issue has been highlighted by human rights groups, who have called for improvements in the living conditions of prisoners.

The Indian prison system is known to be overcrowded and underfunded, which can lead to issues with food and other basic amenities. The government has been working to improve the conditions in jails, but much remains to be done.

As the court considers VanDyke's plea, it will have to balance the needs of the prisoner with the security concerns of the jail authorities. The outcome of the case will be significant, not just for VanDyke, but also for the broader issue of prisoner rights in India.

In the end, the court's decision will have implications for the treatment of prisoners in Indian jails, and will highlight the need for improved living conditions and nutritious food for those in custody.

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