“Video evidence present, yet no FIR registered”: AAP holds protest over alleged slapping incident
AAP holds protest in Tilak Nagar demanding FIR against BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh over alleged slapping incident caught on video.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a vigorous protest in Delhi's Tilak Nagar on Sunday, accusing BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh of slapping a youth during a road inspection. The party has demanded immediate legal action, alleging that despite clear video evidence of the incident, the police have failed to register a First Information Report (FIR).
AAP alleges police inaction despite video evidence
Addressing a gathering of supporters during the protest, Delhi AAP President Saurabh Bharadwaj expressed outrage over the perceived failure of the law enforcement agencies. He claimed the incident occurred in the direct presence of the local Station House Officer (SHO).
"All video evidence is present, everything is available on social media," Bharadwaj stated. He noted that while the SHO has claimed an inquiry is underway, no formal FIR has been filed. The AAP leader warned that if the DCP's office does not register an FIR, the party will launch a sit-in protest at the office.
Allegations of "hooliganism" and cowardice
The AAP leader further criticized the BJP, suggesting that the lack of legal consequences would encourage "hooliganism" among party members. Bharadwaj alleged that the minister attempted to evade the situation by fleeing the scene under the protection of police personnel and security guards.
"If Parvesh Verma were to come alone... he would be finished off. Parvesh Verma is a coward; he fled stealthily, running away in fear behind the police," Bharadwaj remarked during his address.
The BJP's Counter-Claims
The controversy began after AAP leaders released a video appearing to show the slapping incident during an inspection. The situation escalated when Tilak Nagar MLA Jarnail Singh raised questions regarding the quality of roadwork in the constituency.
In response to the allegations, the BJP leader denied wrongdoing and turned the accusation back on the AAP. Through a video message, the minister claimed that AAP supporters had misbehaved and hurled abuses at his family members. Furthermore, he accused Jarnail Singh of demanding commissions for road projects, stating that any attempts to obstruct official work or target his family would not be tolerated.