Journalists stage protest outside Delhi Police HQ

A group of journalists belonging to various media organisations today protested outside the Delhi Police Headquarters here, demanding strict action against the police personnel accused of assaulting and molesting media persons.

Two journalists yesterday filed separate complaints -- one for molestation and another for assault during a protest march organised by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students and teachers.

The police lathicharged and used water canons to disperse the crowd near Sanjay Jheel in Lakshmi Bai Nagar.

In a joint statement issued by Press Club of India, Indian Women's Press Corps, Press Association and Federation of Press Clubs in India, immediate action against the officers was demanded.

The protesters also demanded that the Commissioner of Police hear their grievances.

One of the protesting journalists, who did not want to be named, said, "What happened yesterday was not only shocking but scary. It shows the lack of discipline among police personnel who enforce law and order in the city... It is especially worse for women reporters."
Addressing the protesters, Special Commissioner of Police Dependra Pathak said, "An independent inquiry has been initiated by the vigilance unit. It will be completed in two-three days and action will be taken accordingly."