The Delhi High Court on Tuesday sought responses from the Centre and the Delhi Police on petitions alleging police brutality during the recent protest involving activist Sonam Wangchuk and his supporters. The court also directed authorities to preserve CCTV footage related to the incident to ensure that evidence remains available during the proceedings.
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Delhi High Court Seeks Response From Centre on Police Brutality Plea
A Division Bench issued notices to the Union Government and the Delhi Police after hearing petitions that raised serious allegations of excessive use of force by police personnel against protesters.
Orders CCTV Footage to Be Preserved
During the hearing, counsel for the petitioners alleged that women protesters were assaulted, including claims that they were attacked on their private parts. The lawyers also alleged that police personnel used batons fitted with nails, resulting in injuries to several demonstrators. They urged the court to order an independent investigation into the incident.
Representing the Centre, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju opposed the petitions and argued that they were primarily intended to attract publicity. He questioned the timing and intent behind the pleas, suggesting they were aimed at “hogging the limelight.”
The High Court, however, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and asked the authorities to preserve all relevant CCTV footage that could assist in determining the facts. The bench said the material should not be destroyed while the matter is under judicial consideration.
The petitions seek accountability for the alleged use of excessive force during the protest and have requested the court to ensure a fair and transparent investigation. The matter is expected to come up for further hearing after the Centre and the Delhi Police file their responses.
