Full Breakdown
Delhi Police Promotion Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations at Jantar Mantar Protest
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Incident and Immediate Aftermath
On October 3, 2026, three women journalists alleged sexual harassment by police during a protest at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. One journalist named Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Vivek Bhagat, saying he assaulted her after she questioned the lack of female officers. The complaints were forwarded to the Delhi Police Crime Branch for a “fair and impartial enquiry.” — Delhi Police
Promotion and Subsequent Administrative Action
On October 5, 2026, the Delhi government promoted ACP Vivek Bhagat and eleven other DANIPS officers to Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Additional DCP) on a temporary basis. The promotion was described as a routine order predating the allegations. Bhagat requested not to assume the additional duty until the inquiry is completed, and his assignment was put on hold while it remained in effect for the other officers. — DCP New Delhi
Police Guidelines for Journalists
Delhi Police posted an advisory on X directing journalists covering protests to display valid identity cards, keep a “reasonable and safe distance,” and avoid obstructing police operations. The advisory was accompanied by an AI-generated image of women journalists, drawing criticism that the police were regulating press conduct rather than addressing the alleged misconduct.
Official Statements & Responses
- Delhi Police reiterated that the three complaints have been transferred to the Crime Branch.
- A New Delhi DCP called social-media claims of physical assault on female protesters “baseless and misleading.”
- Senior officer Sachin Sharma added that female protesters were handled by female staff and treated with dignity.
Criticism & Opposition
- The Forum for Constitutional Democracy (FCD) condemned the failure to register an FIR against ACP Bhagat, noting the complaints arrived on October 4, 2026 and were sent to the Crime Branch without an FIR. The FCD called for an immediate investigation and Bhagat’s suspension.
- The Press Club of India expressed “shock and dismay” and urged prompt action on the complaints.
- Opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi demanded FIRs, calling the situation a breach of democratic norms. — Rahul Gandhi
- CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke questioned the promotion, asking if Bhagat was being “rewarded for molestation.”
Data & Statistics
- Three women journalists filed harassment complaints.
- Twelve officers, including ACP Bhagat, were promoted to Additional DCP status.
- The promotion is a temporary assignment without additional pay or statutory powers and can be revoked at any time.
Timeline
- Oct 3, 2026 – Protest; alleged harassment.
- Oct 4, 2026 – Police receive complaints; forward to Crime Branch.
- Oct 5, 2026 – FCD issues statement; police promote officers; Bhagat requests deferment of additional duty.
What’s Next
The Crime Branch investigation continues with no public timetable. The Delhi government’s decision on reinstating Bhagat’s additional duty will depend on the inquiry’s outcome.