Crime branch begins probe into clashes, NHRC notice to cops

NEWDELHI:The crime branch have started a probe into the clashes at Delhi University’s north campus last week.

The police have contacted around 10 students seen getting manhandled and thrashed in the mobile videos and other clips circulating on social media.

Police said all the clips and the complaints police received against ABVP, AISA,SFI are being included in the FIR. Sources said they are receiving many anonymous complaints via mail.

A separate inquiry related to the alleged police lapses and police personnel attacking journalists is being enquired by additional deputy commissioner Esha Pandey.

Sources said Pandey’s team is looking at the videos and questioning the police personnel caught on tape. Two constables and a head constable have been suspended.

On Tuesday, the National Human Rights Commission issued a notice to Delhi police commissioner Amulya Patnaik over reports of female students being attacked by police last Thursday.

The notice was sent on a complaint that police attacked a female student and snatched cameras from media persons outside Ramjas College.

Video clips of police personnel slapping and kicking journalists have gone viral on social media.

A police officer had snatched our correspondent’s cell phone while she was recording the clashes. An English daily’s journalist was slapped and heckled by three police personnel.

“The commission has taken on record complaints as well as media reports making similar allegations, including threats to some students on social media. The commission has given him four weeks to submit a detailed report in the matter,” reads the NHRC statement.

Special commissioner of police Dependra Pathak, who is also Delhi Police spokesperson said,” We are yet to receive a notice from NHRC. We will take prompt action on the complaint.”

On Tuesday, the police got additional forces from the adjoining central district to ensure there was no violence.

Unlike February 22 (the day of clashes) when there was only 1 DCP-level officer in campus, on Tuesday DCPs Nupur Prasad, MS Radhawa along with their senior Joint CP Virender Chahal were sent to the university.