Archive · 21 Jul 2026
US Mercenary Granted Special Diet in Tihar Jail
An American man named Matthew Aaron VanDyke is in jail in India for terrorism-related charges.
He couldn't eat the food they serve in jail because it was too spicy and oily, and it made him sick.
He lost weight and had other health problems.
His lawyers asked the court to let him have different food that's better for his health.
The court said yes, but he can't have meat.
The jail has to give him a cook and some other things to help him stay healthy.
His family will pay for all the extra food and stuff he needs.
Matthew Aaron VanDyke, an American national, is facing terrorism-related charges in India.
He filed a plea to receive food items of his choice due to health issues with the prison diet.
The court allowed his request, except for non-vegetarian items, and ordered the jail to provide a cook.
VanDyke's health deteriorated, losing 14 kg and experiencing vision problems and weakened immunity.
The court directed the jail authorities to ensure his health and well-being while in custody.
- Who
- Matthew Aaron VanDyke, an American national facing terrorism-related charges
- What
- A Delhi court allowed VanDyke to receive food items of his choice and use specified cooking facilities inside Tihar Jail
- When
- The plea was filed and heard in 2026
- Where
- Delhi's Patiala House Court and Tihar Jail
- Why
- VanDyke's health deteriorated due to the prison diet, and his lawyers argued that his right to dignity and life under Article 21 of the Constitution was being violated
Defense Argument
Prison Authorities
Dietary Needs
Defense Argument
VanDyke's health deteriorated due to spicy, oily prison food; requires a special diet for medical reasons.
Prison Authorities
Prison authorities initially resisted, but ultimately complied with the court's order.
- Accused
- Matthew Aaron VanDyke
- Charges
- Terrorism-related charges
- Court
- Delhi's Patiala House Court
- Judge
- Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma
- Prison
- Tihar Jail
- Health Impact
- Lost 14 kg, vision problems, declined strength and immunity
- Allowed Food Items
- Lentils, pasta, uncooked noodles, rice, potatoes, onions, beans, bread, butter, olive oil, toned milk, soy milk, bottled water, spices
- Denied Food Items
- Red meat, chicken, fish, shrimp