Delhi Police Deny Assaulting 2 Women Journalists At Saket Station

Two freelance women journalists, Shaheen Khan and Nafisa Khan, have alleged that they were detained and assaulted by Delhi Police personnel at the Saket police station on Thursday. The incident occurred while they were covering a public event in South Delhi, attended by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

According to the journalists, they were asked about their religious identity and were assaulted after revealing that they were Muslims. They claim that the alleged assault intensified after police learned their Muslim names. The journalists were reportedly attempting to question Chief Minister Rekha Gupta about an alleged “cycle scam” when they were stopped by police personnel.

The Delhi Police, however, has denied the allegations, describing them as “factually incorrect” and “misleading.” Police claimed that the women were removed after their scooter was found obstructing a designated VVIP security route, and they repeatedly refused to comply with security instructions. Police also said that the women were not carrying identity cards at the time.

Videos showing the two women displaying injury marks on different parts of their bodies have gone viral on social media. A lawyer representing the journalists has also filed a complaint over the alleged assault. The journalists alleged that they were taken into a closed room at the Saket police station, where a woman police personnel in plain clothes slapped them and beat them with sticks.

The incident has been condemned by leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), who accused the government of failing to protect press freedom. The Congress party has also condemned the alleged use of force against the journalists.

The allegations of assault and religion-based targeting could not be independently verified. The Delhi Police has disputed the account of the journalists, and an investigation is likely to be conducted into the incident.

The incident highlights the importance of press freedom and the need for protection of journalists in India. The alleged assault on the two women journalists has sparked outrage and concern among media organizations and human rights groups.

The Delhi Police has a responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all individuals, including journalists, and to protect their right to freedom of expression. The incident is a reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in India and the need for greater protection and support for media professionals.

In conclusion, the alleged assault on the two women journalists by Delhi Police personnel is a serious incident that requires immediate attention and investigation. The incident highlights the need for greater protection of press freedom and the importance of ensuring the safety and security of journalists in India.