Delhi Police has filed an FIR against women workers of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) in connection with a bus assault case, as per reports, amid allegations of police brutality during protests in the national capital.
The development comes as the Supreme Court prepares to hear 22 petitions concerning the alleged detention and assault of protesters, journalists and lawyers.
The petitions also seek contempt action against Delhi Police and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation over restrictions on roads, metro services and railway facilities.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi backed a female protester who alleged that a woman constable grabbed her by the neck, scratched her face and ear, and slapped her during detention. Gandhi described her as “our sherni” at a press conference.
NSUI National President Vinod Jakhar visited Parliament Street Police Station on Wednesday, demanding an FIR, a fair investigation and the release of CCTV footage from inside the station.
He said police had verbally assured the delegation that an FIR would be registered within 24 hours. NSUI later said the FIR had been filed and vowed to continue its fight for justice.
Meanwhile, Abhijeet Dipke, Neha Bora and Kapil Sibal are scheduled to address a press conference on Thursday.
Issues expected to be raised include reclaiming Jantar Mantar, the arrests of Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, and the controversy surrounding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The Supreme Court proceedings are expected to examine the allegations and restrictions on public movement and transport.
