NHRC Probes Delhi Police Over Journalist Harassment Allegations

The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of reports that three female journalists were manhandled and sexually harassed by the Delhi Police during an October 3 protest against the Special Intensive Revision at Jantar Mantar. The commission issued a notice to the Delhi Police Commissioner demanding a detailed report within two weeks, citing serious human rights violation issues.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav confirmed that the three women lodged complaints around 6 PM alleging manhandling by officers and staff during their detention. Police have since registered the complaints and conducted medical examinations, referring the case to the Crime Branch for further investigation.

In response to the incident, Additional DCP New Delhi Manjeet Sheoran urged media personnel to maintain distance from demonstrators to avoid obstructing police operations. Sheoran alleged that some individuals act as journalists one day and protesters the next, claiming that such actions put obstacles in the way of police work.