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Delhi Police denies assault claims, issues guidelines for journalists amid Jantar Mantar row
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Moneycontrol•06-10-2026, 07:14
Delhi Police denies assault claims, issues guidelines for journalists amid Jantar Mantar row
- •The Delhi Police rejected allegations of physical assault on women protesters during an October 3 demonstration at Jantar Mantar, calling the claims baseless and misleading.
- •Three women journalists had previously accused police personnel, including ACP Vivek Bhagat, of sexual harassment while covering the protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
- •Following the controversy, Delhi Police issued new guidelines for journalists covering protests, advising them to display valid press credentials and maintain a safe distance.
- •ACP Vivek Bhagat voluntarily requested to step aside from an additional charge assignment as Additional DCP until a Crime Branch inquiry into the allegations is completed.
- •The Delhi government clarified that the administrative order assigning charges to officers was initiated on August 25, well before the allegations emerged.
Key Questions Answered
The Delhi Police advised journalists to carry and visibly display valid organizational, PIB, or DIP identification cards. They must also avoid interfering with police operations and maintain a safe, reasonable distance during tense situations.
ACP Vivek Bhagat voluntarily requested to forego his newly assigned current duty charge as Additional DCP following sexual harassment allegations made against him by a woman journalist during an October 3 protest at Jantar Mantar.
The Delhi Police rejected the social media claims as baseless and misleading, stating that female protesters were handled by female personnel, treated with dignity, and that all detentions and releases followed due legal process.
