'Extremely Wrong': Brinda Karat Slams Delhi Police Over FIR Delay
CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat condemns Delhi Police for demanding video proof before registering sexual harassment complaints from female journalists.
In a scathing critique of law enforcement conduct, CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat has condemned the Delhi Police for their handling of sexual harassment allegations filed by female journalists. Karat slammed the authorities for their initial refusal to register a First Information Report (FIR), noting that officers had demanded video evidence before taking legal action.
"What is the meaning of law?"
The controversy erupted following a demonstration on October 3 near Jantar Mantar. During the unrest, three women identifying themselves as journalists filed complaints alleging they were manhandled and sexually harassed by police officers. Karat expressed deep outrage at the police's procedural demands, questioning the very foundation of legal protection for women.
"Now, when sexual harassment is happening with a journalist and Delhi Police is trying to save him and it is being asked to show the video," Karat told ANI. "If you have the video, we will register an FIR. So what is the meaning of law? Leave the law, take the video and if someone is harassing you, show your video first. What kind of way is this? This is extremely wrong. Registering an FIR is a requirement of the law."
Political Outcry and Allegations of Misconduct
The incident has drawn sharp political criticism. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, accused the Delhi Police of serious misconduct. Addressing the Union Home Ministry directly, Gandhi questioned the accountability of the leadership regarding the safety of women and journalists.
In a statement on X, Gandhi highlighted the fear gripping students and women across the capital. He noted that while hundreds of journalists were waiting for an FIR to be registered, the force meant to protect them was instead detaining protesters. "Amit Shah ji, where are you? You have to answer for this," Gandhi stated, referencing the alleged misbehaviour of officers toward women.
Current Status of the Investigation
The protests, which were part of a larger demonstration by the All India Students' Association (AISA) and other groups regarding electoral roll revisions, saw several individuals detained under Section 163 of the BNSS. Protesters, including AISA president Neha Bora and senior advocates Prashant Bhushan and Kapil Sibal, were reportedly involved in attempts to breach police barricades.
Addressing the recent developments, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Neha Yadav confirmed that the journalists' complaints have now been officially registered. According to the DCP:
- Medical examinations of the complainants have been conducted.
- The matter has been transferred to the Crime Branch, Kamla Market.
- The investigation will be a "fair and impartial enquiry."
While the police have moved forward with the legal process, they have also issued a public appeal for anyone in possession of video footage related to the incident to come forward and assist investigators.