Delhi Police ACP Vivek Bhagat's Duty Charge Suspended Amid Harassment Claims

The Delhi government announced on Monday that the promotion of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Vivek Bhagat has been suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment made by a woman journalist. The allegations stem from an incident during a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on October 3 at Jantar Mantar.

Earlier in the day, Bhagat was assigned the current duty charge (CDC) of additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) along with 12 other officers. This proposal was initiated on August 25, prior to the recent allegations, and received approval on October 5. However, the government emphasized that the assignment of CDC is a temporary measure that does not confer any financial benefits or statutory duties.

In light of the allegations, ACP Bhagat voluntarily requested to refrain from taking on the current duty charge until a thorough investigation into the harassment claims is completed. The Delhi government confirmed that the order will be modified to exclude Bhagat from the assignment while proceeding with the inquiry.

The allegations against Bhagat are part of broader complaints from three women journalists who reported incidents of sexual harassment by Delhi Police officers during the October 3 protest, which was aimed at addressing alleged irregularities in the Election Commission's operations. The Delhi Police have forwarded these complaints to the Crime Branch for further investigation.

Moving forward, the Delhi government is expected to prioritize the investigation into the harassment allegations while ensuring that the integrity of the police force is maintained. The outcome of the inquiry will determine the future of ACP Bhagat's position and any potential repercussions for those involved in the complaints.