3 Female Journalists Allege Sexual Harassment by Delhi Police During Jantar Mantar Protest

Three female journalists have accused the Delhi Police of sexual harassment while they were reporting a protest march at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. The complaints pertain to the protest held on October 3 against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the case has been sent to the Crime Branch for a “fair and impartial” probe.

Sexual harassment of female journalists during Delhi protest march: What happened?

As per the complaints, the journalists were covering the arrest of protesters by the police when they were subjected to physical abuse and manhandling. A journalist reportedly claimed that she was sexually assaulted by the Assistant Commissioner of Police as she had asked about the absence of women police officers while arresting protesters.

It has also been reported that the journalists along with other people had sought the registration of an FIR at a police station but no action was taken immediately.

Delhi Police admits having received complaints of all three journalists and forwards them to the Crime Branch for investigation. Investigation would involve recording of statement and review of all available evidence, which includes CCTV footage among others.

Delhi Protest Sexual Harassment Case Becomes A Cause for Concern

It is not just a Delhi protest sexual harassment case anymore. Press Council of India has condemned the event and stated that journalists should be able to cover the events without any fear or aggression.

This case has even led to a new round of protests outside Parliament Street Police Station, where journalists and activists are demanding action on the cases filed. It has been reported that on 5th of October, some people protesting against inaction of the police were arrested.

For context, it must be noted that DemocraX has already covered the Supreme Court’s interference in Delhi rape cases and coverage of Gyanesh Kumar and the Election Commission controversy.

Now, the attention moves to the Crime Branch inquiry. What transpired and who was involved in the process can be ascertained only based on the findings from the probe.

For more information on this matter, refer to the reports published by the Indian Express and NDTV.

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