Delhi ACP Files FIR Against Journalist for Casteist Remarks
Following allegations of molestation, ACP Vivek Bhagat accuses a journalist of making derogatory caste comments.
ACP Vivek Bhagat has filed an FIR against a journalist for alleged casteist remarks.
The incident occurred during anti-EC protests in Delhi on October 3.
No FIR has been registered against Bhagat regarding the journalist's molestation claims.
In a controversial turn of events, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Vivek Bhagat has lodged a complaint against a woman journalist, alleging that she made derogatory caste remarks about him during protests in Delhi. This complaint comes in the wake of accusations against Bhagat for molesting the journalist during an anti-Election Commission protest on October 3. The FIR was filed at the Parliament Street police station under the SC/ST Act, as well as charges related to obstructing a public servant and criminal defamation.
The incident unfolded when Bhagat was on duty managing law and order during a demonstration called by AISA president Neha Bora. Protesters had gathered at Buta Singh Roundabout, and as police attempted to disperse the crowd, Bhagat claims the journalist publicly humiliated him by referring to his caste identity. He stated that she pointed to his nameplate and made remarks suggesting that he, as a member of the Meghwal community, was unworthy of his position as an ACP.
According to Bhagat's FIR, he and a colleague overheard the journalist making these remarks before she accused him of sexual assault. He described the comments as intended to demean him, stating that he chose to ignore them while performing his official duties. The ACP emphasized that the incident had a significant impact on his mental health and reputation.
In response to the allegations against him, Bhagat noted that he faced public backlash, including protests outside the police station where he was labeled a “sexual predator.” He claims that social media posts further perpetuated this narrative, leading to a tarnished image. Meanwhile, the Delhi Police arrested a man from Haryana for allegedly circulating a fabricated video that misrepresented the incident, claiming it was generated using AI tools.
As the situation develops, Bhagat has formally requested action against the journalist, asserting that her allegations are malicious and unfounded. The inquiry into the journalist's claims is ongoing, and no charges have yet been filed against Bhagat regarding the molestation allegations. The case highlights the complexities surrounding accusations of misconduct and the implications of caste identity in public discourse.
