Three women journalists have accused Delhi Police personnel of sexual harassment while covering a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Saturday.
The protest, organised by the All India Students Association (AISA), was demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in voter roll revision.
One journalist alleged that Assistant Commissioner of Police Vivek Bhagat sexually assaulted her after she questioned the absence of women police personnel during detention of protesters. She said she was touched inappropriately and pushed while recording video.
The journalists said they went to Parliament Street Police Station to file an FIR but no case was registered for hours, prompting a late-night sit-in outside the station.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Neha Yadav said on Sunday that three complaints alleging manhandling were received on Saturday evening, medical examinations conducted, and the cases transferred to the Crime Branch at Kamla Market for a fair and impartial enquiry.
The Press Council of India expressed shock and dismay, urging Delhi Police to act immediately and ensure journalists can work freely. ACP Bhagat could not be reached for comment.
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