Allegations of Molestation Against Women Cops During Protest
Women police officers were reportedly molested during a protest led by Rahul Gandhi, prompting serious allegations from the government.
Solicitor General claims women cops were molested during Congress protest.
BJP accuses Rahul Gandhi of inappropriate conduct towards a police officer.
Supreme Court questions the legality of protest restrictions in Delhi.
In a significant development, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta alleged that women police personnel were molested and injured during a protest led by Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. This claim was made during a Supreme Court hearing on Friday, where Mehta presented visuals from the protest that occurred two days prior. He stated that police officers faced verbal abuse while maintaining order, asserting that the protest was unlawful due to the lack of prior permission.
The protest took place as members of the opposition INDIA bloc attempted to march to Jantar Mantar to voice their concerns over alleged electoral malpractice and to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The situation escalated when police intervened, leading to clashes. Mehta's remarks came amidst ongoing discussions regarding restrictions imposed in Delhi ahead of another protest planned by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on October 10.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, emphasized the need to balance the right to protest with the rights of other citizens to access essential services. Senior lawyers representing various parties raised concerns about the extent of the restrictions, including metro station closures and border checks, which they argued could disrupt the daily lives of millions.
The implications of these events extend beyond the immediate protest. The allegations against Rahul Gandhi, including claims that he attempted to push a female police officer during a confrontation, have sparked a political backlash, with the BJP demanding an apology. Meanwhile, Gandhi and other opposition leaders were forcibly removed from their protest site, highlighting the tense atmosphere surrounding political demonstrations in the capital.
Looking ahead, the Supreme Court is set to examine the legality of the protest restrictions and the government's justification for them. This case could set a precedent for how protests are managed in Delhi, particularly regarding the balance between public order and the right to assemble peacefully.
