Kin reluctantly agree to accept Makwana's body

SURATt: Family members of Mahendra Makwana, 25, who died after being allegedly thrashed by police sub-inspector V S Patel in Moti Ved area of the city on Sunday last, had initially refused to accept his body.
Senior police officers held a series of discussions with family members on Monday and were able to persuade them to perform the last rites.
Police officers assured the Makwanas that action will be taken against the person responsible after a thorough investigation in the matter.Family members wanted immediate action against the PSI but police officers assured them that action will be taken after the inquiry.
A complaint of murder and atrocity was registered against Patel and investigation was handed over to assistant commissioner of police.
"Police have accepted all the demands of the family members and are taking requisite steps in the case. We have assured them of a proper investigation," said R D Baranda, deputy commissioner of police, zone III.
At least 250 people belonging to the family and the community had gathered at Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research (SMIMER) Hospital on Monday. There was heavy police bandobast to tackle any untoward situation, but the family and community members ensured there was peace.
"We lost our only child. He was not sick. He must have died due to police thrashing. We want justice," Mahendra's mother Hansa said.