11 May 2024: In an alarming incident in Vadodara’s Sayajigunj area, three police officers from the local police station stand accused of assaulting a roadside stall owner. The victim, identified as Faiyaz Sheikh, sustained severe injuries after allegedly being dragged by a police van. The unfortunate event unfolded on Wednesday, drawing widespread attention to the alleged brutality inflicted upon the vendor.
According to reports, Faiyaz, who operates an egg stall near Vadodara railway station, was confronted by police officers late at night and instructed to close his stall. However, due to not having the keys, he awaited his brother’s arrival, leading to a heated argument with the police.
Eyewitnesses claim that the situation escalated quickly, resulting in physical assault on Faiyaz by the officers. Shockingly, he was then purportedly dragged by a police van for a considerable distance, causing severe injuries that necessitated immediate medical attention. Faiyaz is currently hospitalized and in critical condition, receiving treatment at a multispeciality hospital in Vadodara.
The victim’s family has expressed deep anguish over the incident, highlighting the irreversible impact it has had on Faiyaz’s life. His brother, Mohammad Mumtaz Sheikh, has vowed to seek justice for the grievous harm inflicted upon his sibling, emphasizing the life-altering consequences Faiyaz now faces.
Subsequently, the accused police officers have seen booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including: Section 307 – Attempt to murder, Section 323 – Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt, Section 325 – Punishment for voluntarily causing grievous hurt, Section 504 – Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace, Section 114 – Abettor present when the offense is committed.
Additionally, a complaint has been filed against Faiyaz for allegedly obstructing the police from performing their duty.
While the authorities initially assured the family of financial support for Faiyaz’s medical expenses, the process has encountered obstacles, leaving the family burdened with mounting bills. Despite assurances, the family continues to struggle to secure further payments for ongoing treatment, adding to their distress.
As the investigation unfolds, the Vadodara community awaits accountability for the reprehensible actions alleged against the police officers involved in the incident. The pursuit of justice for Faiyaz remains paramount, reflecting the collective call for accountability and integrity within law enforcement agencies.
