Delhi: Three Women Journalists Allege Sexual Harassment During Protest
Delhi Police Crime Branch to probe allegations of sexual harassment made by three women journalists during protests in the national capital.
In a serious blow to law and order credibility, the Delhi Police has confirmed that three women journalists have filed complaints alleging sexual harassment by police personnel during recent protests in the national capital. The complaints, which were lodged following demonstrations in the New Delhi area, have now been transferred to the Crime Branch for a formal investigation.
Crime Branch to Conduct Impartial Enquiry
The Delhi Police, via an official statement on X, confirmed that the complaints were received following incidents occurring during a period of heightened law and order activity. The protests, held in the New Delhi district, saw significant movement as citizens gathered to voice their grievances.
"The New Delhi District has received their complaints and the same are transferred to Crime Branch for a fair and impartial enquiry," the Delhi Police stated. The investigation will be spearheaded by the Crime Branch located at Kamla Market to ensure the process remains transparent and unbiased.
Political Outcry and Allegations of Misconduct
The allegations have already sparked a political firestorm. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has directly held the Home Ministry accountable for the conduct of the police. Following reports of misbehaviour toward a female journalist at Jantar Mantar, Gandhi questioned Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding answers for the actions of the force.
In a scathing critique, Gandhi noted that while women and students across Delhi were staging satyagraha due to safety concerns, the very personnel responsible for their protection were allegedly behaving inappropriately. He further claimed that hundreds of people were taken into custody during the demonstrations.
Context of the Protests
The unrest in the capital was centered around protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, specifically regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The demonstrations saw intense moments near Jantar Mantar, where several individuals attempted to breach police barricades.
Notable figures present at the scene included:
- Neha Bora, President of the All India Students' Association (AISA)
- Prashant Bhushan, Senior Advocate
- Kapil Sibal, Senior Advocate
The tension resulted in several detentions, including members of the All India Students' Association (AISA). Additionally, the Delhi Police have already registered three FIRs related to the mass protests held near Jantar Mantar on October 2, with cases filed at the Parliament Street and Connaught Place Police Stations.