Delhi cops admit to serious lapse during arrest of lawyer

The Delhi Police on Friday informed the Delhi High Court (HC) that there was serious lapse on the part of a sub-inspector, who allegedly dragged a woman lawyer out of the house to arrest her, despite the court order that no coercive action will be taken against her.

In the status report filed by deputy commissioner of police (DCP), southeast, Romil Baaniya, it was stated that sub-inspector Naresh Kumar acted on his own will and defied the orders of the ACP and the SHO. He broke open the door to arrest advocate Deepa Arya and failed to prepare any documents for the arrest.

Appearing for the Delhi Police, its counsel Rahul Mehra informed the court about the action taken against the officer. He said Kumar has already been sent to the District Lines, south, and a departmental inquiry has been initiated against him.

A show cause notice was also issued to ASI Mahendra and woman constable Sanju in this regard. An explanation was sought from SHO Sanjay Rawat, Safdarjung Enclave, for the lack of supervision on his part.

Satisfied with the action taken by the police, the court disposed off the petition, thereby directing the police to continue giving protection to Arya.

Arya, a 60-year-old lawyer, had filed a plea against the police, alleging that she was manhandled and assaulted by SI Kumar on December 19, while she was at another lawyer's house.

"We are satisfied that appropriate action, in accordance with law, has thus far been taken by the Delhi Police," the court said.