According to the police, the accused auto-driver identified as Sohan Lal, who is in his 30s, has been arrested from his hideout last night.
"The incident took place in Govindpuri area of South Delhi yesterday when Lal caught Sooraj (14) stealing a coconut from his vehicle. He then thrashed the boy badly for this act," said a police official.
The boy returned home but had to be rushed to a nearby hospital as his condition worsened. He succumbed to his injuries.
"Sohan Lal has been arrested following a complaint by the family. A case has been registered against him under relevant sections of IPC," said a police official.