Delhi Police Under Scrutiny After Allegations of Assault on Women Journalists
Three women journalists allege sexual harassment by police during a protest at Jantar Mantar, prompting an investigation.
Three women journalists reported sexual harassment by Delhi Police during a protest.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi demands accountability from Home Minister Amit Shah.
The Press Club of India condemns the police's actions against journalists.
In a troubling incident at Jantar Mantar, three women journalists have accused Delhi Police personnel of sexually assaulting them during a protest. The allegations surfaced amidst demonstrations calling for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi demanding immediate action from Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the police's conduct.
The protests were sparked by accusations against the Chief Election Commissioner of electoral irregularities, which led to widespread unrest. Following the allegations of misconduct, the Delhi Police confirmed that they received complaints from the journalists and have referred the matter to the Crime Branch for a thorough investigation. The police stated, "On 03-10-26, during the protest in New Delhi area, allegations of sexual harassment were made by three female journalists against police officers."
In response to the incident, journalists at the protest site staged a sit-in, insisting on the registration of FIRs. Rahul Gandhi highlighted the severity of the situation in a social media post, criticizing the police for failing to fulfill their duty to protect citizens. He expressed concern over the safety of women and students in Delhi, stating, "A government that fears registering even one woman’s complaint – what exactly is it protecting?"
The incident has drawn attention from various organizations, including the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and the All India Students’ Association (AISA), both of which have echoed the journalists' claims of police misconduct. CJP spokesperson Saurav Das called for immediate action against the accused officers, while AISA reported that women protesters were also subjected to mistreatment by male police personnel.
The Press Club of India has expressed its dismay over the treatment of journalists during the protests, emphasizing the need for a free press to operate without fear. They urged the authorities to take the allegations seriously and ensure that journalists can perform their duties without facing aggression. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on accountability and the protection of journalists in India.
