Mumbai lawyer Nitin S. Satpute has written to the Maharashtra government, Bombay High Court, and Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission, urging them to file an FIR against the officers of Powai Police Station. This case is linked to the death of Rohit Arya, who was shot during a police operation after he took 19 people, including 17 children and 2 adults, hostage in a studio in Powai, Mumbai.
In his letter dated October 31, 2025, Satpute described the incident as a 'fake encounter' and demanded an investigation by the CBI. He alleges that the police killed Rohit Arya under the pretext of protecting the main accused, claiming Arya was merely a scapegoat.
'Police Conducted Encounter to Conceal Failure'
The lawyer seeks charges under sections 61, 103, 198, 199, and 351 of the Indian Penal Code, 2023, and section 25 of the Bombay Police Act, 1951. Heargues that the encounter was to cover up the failure to ensure children's safety and the shortcomings of a pressured police force.
'Police Could Have Captured Rohit Arya Alive'
Satpute accuses the state government of being 'responsible for the kidnapping of 17 children and 2 adults' and claims that the government cheated Rohit Arya by not paying him ₹2 crores. He says Arya was stressed about this amount and the police could have apprehended him by shooting him in the limb or lower part to capture him alive.
The letter mentions Arya going on a hunger strike for his dues. It is alleged that 'he wanted to commit suicide, but later planned to hold children hostage to pressure the government.'
'Image as Encounter Specialist'
According to Satpute, the police were unable to capture him alive and were trying to gain popularity and an image as 'Encounter Specialists,' like Pradeep Sharma, Daya Naik, and Vijay Salaskar. He demands a murder case against DCP Datta Nalavade, SI Jitendra Sonawane, and API Amol Waghmare.
He also calls for a CBI investigation into this encounter and the arrest of the police officers involved. Additionally, he accuses the police of instigating Arya's ex-wife to file a false complaint against him.
