Delhi Government Suspends Additional Charge for Police Officer Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

The Delhi government announced on Monday that it has decided to withhold the assignment of additional responsibilities to Assistant Commissioner of Police Vivek Bhagat while an investigation into sexual harassment claims against him is ongoing. This decision comes in the wake of serious allegations made by a woman journalist who accused Bhagat of groping her during a protest at Jantar Mantar.

According to the journalist, the incident occurred while she was filming student leader Neha Bora, who was being detained amidst protests calling for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Following the alleged harassment, the journalist approached the Parliament Street police station to file her complaint; however, she claims that no significant action was taken in response to her report.

In the aftermath of these allegations, certain police officials have voiced concerns regarding the impact of such reports on law enforcement personnel. One unnamed official suggested that filing cases against police officers for actions undertaken during their duties might discourage them from effectively managing law and order. Another official, also speaking anonymously, indicated to the media that there was a lack of evidence to support the journalist’s claims.

Despite the serious allegations, Bhagat was assigned the current duty of additional deputy commissioner of police, along with 11 other officers, shortly after the accusations surfaced. This temporary arrangement, known as a current duty charge, allows government employees to fulfill the responsibilities of a higher position without receiving a formal promotion or additional compensation. The Delhi government clarified that the orders to assign Bhagat these duties were initiated on August 25, which predates the recent allegations.

This situation has ignited discussions about the accountability of police officers and the mechanisms in place for addressing grievances reported by citizens, particularly women. As the inquiry progresses, the outcome will likely be closely monitored by both the public and advocates for justice and equality.

Source: scroll.in