Journalists Allege Manhandling by Delhi Police During Protest
Three women journalists have lodged complaints alleging manhandling and sexual harassment by Delhi Police during a protest against the SIR.
Three women journalists have lodged formal complaints alleging they were manhandled by Delhi Police officers and staff during their detention during a protest in the national capital. The incident occurred during a demonstration held on October 3 against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
Police Respond to Allegations
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Neha Yadav confirmed that the complaints were registered on Sunday. According to the DCP, the women identified themselves as journalists and alleged physical assault while in police custody. "Around 6 PM, three women, who identified themselves as journalists, lodged a complaint alleging manhandling by Delhi Police officers and staff during their detention," Yadav stated.
The police have initiated a formal investigation into the matter. The DCP noted that medical examinations have already been conducted for the complainants. Furthermore, the case has been referred to the Crime Branch for a detailed probe. The authorities have also issued a public appeal for anyone possessing relevant video footage of the incident to share it with the Crime Branch to assist in the investigation.
Serious Allegations of Harassment
In addition to the allegations of manhandling, the Delhi Police confirmed on Sunday that they have received complaints from three female journalists alleging sexual harassment by police personnel during the protests. The New Delhi District has officially received these complaints following the unrest in the capital.
Context of the Protest and Detentions
The unrest unfolded during a protest near Jantar Mantar, where members of the All India Students’ Association (AISA) and other groups demonstrated against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The protest saw significant tension as several individuals, including AISA president Neha Bora and senior advocates Prashant Bhushan and Kapil Sibal, attempted to breach police barricades.
The Delhi Police maintained that the protesters were given warnings to vacate the area under Section 163 of the BNSS. However, the protesters refused to comply with the orders, leading to the subsequent detentions. In connection with the mass protest held near Jantar Mantar, the police have already registered at least three FIRs across the Parliament Street and Connaught Place police stations.
Controversy Surrounding the SIR Exercise
The protests were fueled by ongoing debates regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. This follows reports suggesting that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised numerous objections regarding voter registration and the Commission’s technology systems over a ten-month period. While the Election Commission has rejected claims of institutional dissent, stating that the objections were part of standard administrative processes, the SIR exercise remains a flashpoint for political demonstrations in the capital.