Matthew VanDyke Case: Family Seeks Urgent US Diplomatic Intervention Over Tihar Detention

The family of US citizen Matthew Aaron VanDyke is seeking urgent diplomatic intervention from Washington over his continued detention at Tihar Jail in Delhi, alleging that he has faced serious health, communication and custody-related difficulties. VanDyke, who was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in March in a case involving alleged terror-related activities, remains in judicial custody.

Family members and his legal representatives say VanDyke has suffered health problems during his detention, including mobility and eyesight difficulties, and has had limited communication with his family in the United States. Recent court proceedings have focused on his medical condition and dietary needs, with a Delhi court directing jail authorities in July to provide certain safeguards and arrange meals suited to his condition. Tihar Food ‘Too Spicy, Oily’: US Mercenary Matthew Aaron VanDyke Seeks Chicken, Fish, Shrimp in Court Plea.

Matthew VanDyke's Family Seeks Urgent US Diplomatic Intervention 

Family Raises Custody And Health Concerns

"Family of Matthew Aaron VanDyke, United States citizen, NGO director, seek urgent US diplomatic intervention after his illegal detention at Kolkata airport on March 11th, and transfer from NIA headquarters April 6th with an injured leg, diminished eyesight, as well as being denied his prescription meds, and communication with family. Presently detained at Tihar jail 8/9," the statement said.

The characterisation of the detention as “illegal” is the family’s position. Indian authorities have accused VanDyke of involvement in a case concerning alleged terrorist activities and cross-border links; he has denied the allegations. Public reporting confirms that he was detained at Kolkata airport in March and subsequently taken into NIA custody. Myanmar Training Module Case: Five Ukrainians, US National Consent to Voice Samples; Judicial Custody Extended.

A June court proceeding did address pleas concerning his medical treatment and family communication, with his lawyers citing mobility and health difficulties and seeking specialist medical evaluation.

Court Orders Relief Over Food And Basic Needs

Matthew began an only-liquids hunger strike on May 6th that he tried to end June 18, according to the statement. A humanitarian-food application was approved July 21st. Matthew has yet to receive approved mosquito nets, and kettle. Matthew is reportedly eating only oatmeal as other purchased foods are not provided to him.

The July 21 court order provides important context to the family’s account. The court directed Tihar authorities to provide mosquito safeguards and an electronic kettle and ordered that a cook prepare meals according to VanDyke’s approved choices, while excluding non-vegetarian food. The court also directed the jail authorities and medical officer to ensure his health and well-being during custody.

VanDyke’s lawyers had earlier told the court that he had been unable to eat the regular prison food, which they described as spicy, oily, deep-fried and greasy. His application said he had lost about 14 kg after remaining largely on liquids. The family says that, despite the court order, some approved items have not yet been provided and that VanDyke has been eating mainly oatmeal.

Family Seeks US Diplomatic Intervention

Matthew’s mother Sharon VanDyke, and Gia Santos spokesperson for the family visited DC June 1-3 and again July 8/9th to speak with Congressional offices, and the State Department. Judicial custody extension is through Sept 8th. The family seeks urgent US diplomatic intervention. It is time to bring Matthew VanDyke back home.

The family has also publicly sought greater US government involvement in the case. A petition associated with the family says the US Embassy has been engaged and alleges that the case was raised with senior Indian and US officials. Those claims should be distinguished from independently confirmed government action.

VanDyke’s case has attracted attention in the United States as his family and supporters campaign for diplomatic assistance and improved detention conditions. His supporters have described his situation as a humanitarian matter, while Indian authorities continue to pursue the underlying criminal case.

NIA Case And Allegations

VanDyke was arrested along with six Ukrainian nationals in March. Indian investigators allege that the group entered restricted areas in Mizoram and subsequently travelled into Myanmar, where they allegedly had links with ethnic armed groups. The NIA has accused the group of activities including training and support for insurgent organisations. VanDyke has denied the allegations against him.

His background has also received scrutiny because of his previous involvement in conflict zones. He founded Sons of Liberty International and has described himself as a security consultant, filmmaker and war correspondent. Indian media reports have detailed his involvement in Libya and Ukraine before his arrest in India.

Family Calls Situation A Humanitarian Emergency

“This is a humanitarian emergency for our family,” his mother said. “Matthew has spent his life documenting human suffering and supporting people in crisis. We are pleading for his safe return home.”

The family continues to seek US diplomatic intervention while VanDyke remains in judicial custody in India. The immediate focus is now on his health, access to approved food and basic facilities, communication with family and the progress of the NIA investigation and court proceedings.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 31, 2026 08:01 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).