An American national lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail in connection with a terror-related investigation has moved a Delhi court seeking permission to cook his own meals inside prison. Claiming that he has been unable to consume the regular prison diet, Matthew Aaron VanDyke told the court that the food served in jail has severely affected his health and forced him to remain on a hunger strike.
VanDyke, who was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) along with six other foreign nationals in an alleged terror conspiracy case, has requested a special arrangement that would allow him to prepare food at his own expense while remaining in judicial custody.
Claims Prison Diet Triggered Health Problems
In his plea before the Patiala House Court, VanDyke argued that he is unfamiliar with the standard Indian prison diet, describing it as excessively spicy, oily and deep-fried. Through his lawyer, he claimed the meals were unsuitable for him and had led to a prolonged hunger strike that reportedly began on May 6.
According to the application, the American prisoner has lost around 30 pounds (approximately 14 kg) and is suffering from poor nutrition, weakened immunity, reduced stamina and vision-related problems. His counsel maintained that the request was made solely on humanitarian grounds to protect his health while the trial is pending.
Requests Red Meat, Pasta, Olive Oil and Cooking Equipment
As part of the application, VanDyke has sought permission to store and prepare a wide variety of food items inside Tihar Jail. The list includes red meat, chicken, shrimp, pasta, uncooked noodles, rice, potatoes, onions, lentils, beans, bread, butter, olive oil, toned milk, soya milk, bottled water and spices.
He has also requested approval to use basic cooking equipment, including an induction cooker, pots, bowls and a plastic food chopper. The plea states that all expenses for food supplies and cooking equipment would be borne by his family, without any financial burden on prison authorities.
Court Seeks Tihar Jail’s Reply
The Delhi court has sought a response from Tihar Jail authorities on the request and fixed July 21 as the next date of hearing.
VanDyke, who describes himself as a security analyst, war correspondent and documentary filmmaker, was arrested in Kolkata during an NIA operation investigating an alleged terror conspiracy involving multiple foreign nationals. His request for permission to prepare his own meals will now be considered after the jail administration files its response before the court.
Who is Matthew Aaron VanDyke?
Matthew Aaron VanDyke is an American national arrested by the NIA in an alleged terror conspiracy case and is currently lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail.
Why has he approached the court?
He has sought permission to cook his own meals, claiming the regular prison food has caused serious health problems.
What food has VanDyke requested?
His application includes red meat, chicken, shrimp, pasta, olive oil, rice, lentils, bread, butter, milk, bottled water and other ingredients.
When will the court hear the matter?
The Delhi court has scheduled the next hearing for July 21 after seeking a response from Tihar Jail authorities.
