Who Is Rohit Arya? The Man Who Kidnapped 20 Children in Mumbai, What Has Happened So Far

In 2022, Rohit Arya started the Majhi Shala Sundar Shala initiative. However, over time, the government took over the initiative without giving him any credit for his work. On October 2, 2024, Rohit protested against the government, alleging that the Maharashtra government had subjected him to financial and mental torture.

What Action Has the Mumbai Police Taken?

According to the Mumbai Police, all the children were rescued safely and handed over to their guardians.
Officials stated that Rohit Arya appeared mentally unstable, and his motive behind the incident is under investigation.

“The man appears to be mentally unstable, and the police are trying to handle the matter,” a police spokesperson said.

According to the police, Arya fired at officers with an air gun during the rescue operation, prompting them to retaliate with a single round of fire. He was subsequently taken to a hospital with gunshot injuries but later succumbed to his wounds during treatment.

What Has Happened So Far

On the morning of the incident, nearly 100 children arrived at RA Studio in Powai for the supposed auditions. After a round of activities, Arya reportedly allowed around 80 children to leave but kept 15 to 20 confined inside.

Soon after, Arya released a video on social media claiming he was “not a terrorist” and that he had “moral and ethical demands.” In the video, he also threatened to set the premises on fire if his demands were not met.

Upon receiving the information, the Mumbai Police and emergency services quickly reached the spot and cordoned off the area. A rescue operation was launched, and after several tense hours, all children were safely rescued without any injuries.

Arya was subsequently shot and detained by the police. Authorities are investigating his motives and mental condition.