The family of Somnath Suryavanshi, a Dalit man who died in judicial custody in Parbhani last month, has declined the Rs 10 lakh compensation offered by the Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, citing their ongoing fight for justice.

When district officials visited the Suryavanshi residence in Parbhani to deliver the financial assistance, the family refused to accept the money, news agency PTI reported.

Suryavanshi’s mother expressed her gratitude to the Chief Minister but firmly refused the aid.

"I am grateful to the Chief Minister for the help. But, till I don't get justice, I won't accept the monetary aid," She said, reported PTI.

Officials reportedly tried to persuade her by emphasizing the lengthy nature of legal battles, but she remained resolute.

Suryavanshi’s brother accused the police of being responsible for his death.

"Unless and until the police are punished, we will not accept the financial aid. A month has passed, but no offence has been registered against the culprits. My brother's killers are roaming free even today. We will accept the monetary aid only after my brother gets justice," he said.

Suryavanshi, 35, died in judicial custody after being arrested in connection with violence in Parbhani city last December.

The unrest was sparked by the desecration of a glass-encased replica of the Constitution.