Delhi Police Arrest Woman in Malviya Nagar Racial Abuse and Intimidation Case
In a significant development, Delhi Police have apprehended a woman in connection with an alleged incident of racial abuse and criminal intimidation targeting three women tenants from Arunachal Pradesh in south Delhi's Malviya Nagar area. The arrest follows the registration of a case at Malviya Nagar Police Station under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 79, 351(2), 3(5), and 196.
Details of the Alleged Altercation and Legal Action
The First Information Report (FIR) stems from a dispute that reportedly occurred on February 20 around 3:30 PM. According to police investigators, the three complainants were having electrical installation work conducted at their rented fourth-floor apartment. During this process, dust and debris from drilling allegedly fell into the premises below, sparking a confrontation with their neighbors, identified as Harsh Singh and his wife Ruby Jain, residents of Malviya Nagar.
The women tenants alleged that during the altercation, the accused subjected them to verbal abuse, made derogatory and racial remarks specifically targeting their North-Eastern identity, used objectionable language, insulted their modesty, and issued threats. Police confirmed that no physical injuries were reported, but the complainants cited severe mental harassment and humiliation as a result of the incident.
Invocation of SC/ST Act and Arrest Made
In an update issued on Wednesday, Delhi Police revealed that during further investigation, relevant provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act were invoked based on the material available on record. This legal escalation led to the subsequent arrest of Ruby Jain. The investigation is currently ongoing under the supervision of senior officers to ensure a thorough probe into all aspects of the case.
Examination of Video Evidence and Social Media Impact
A purported video of the incident has been circulating widely on social media platforms, drawing public attention to the case. Police authorities stated that this footage, along with CCTV recordings and witness statements, is being meticulously examined as part of the comprehensive investigation to verify the allegations and gather corroborative evidence.
Accused Claims Cooperation and Issues Apology
Harsh Singh, the co-accused in the case, asserted that he and his family are fully cooperating with the Delhi Police investigation. He expressed confidence in the police and the Indian judiciary, while also addressing the incident publicly. Singh stated, "We are showing complete cooperation with Delhi Police and have full faith in the police and the Indian judiciary. We are definitely ashamed. I am not such a person, but it was in the heat of the moment. We did not intend to do so."
He further urged social media users to consider both sides of the story and cautioned against what he termed as "media trials." Additionally, Singh alleged that his family has faced online harassment following the incident and issued a formal apology "to all Northeastern people," acknowledging the broader impact of the alleged actions.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about racial discrimination and legal protections for marginalized communities in urban settings, with authorities emphasizing a commitment to justice through continued investigation and legal proceedings.
