A head constable with the Delhi Traffic Police has been suspended following widespread outrage over a video that showed him physically assaulting a taxi driver during a routine document check. The incident, which occurred in the bustling Paharganj area of central Delhi, was captured by bystanders and quickly spread across social media platforms.
Altercation During Routine Check Escalates
The confrontation took place around 3 pm on Sunday, December 15, 2025. According to police officials, the head constable had signaled the taxi driver to stop for a standard verification of his vehicle's documents. While the constable was conducting the check, a verbal argument erupted between the two men. This disagreement rapidly escalated into a physical scuffle.
In the widely circulated video clip, the taxi driver can be seen seated inside his cab. The head constable is then allegedly seen leaning into the vehicle and repeatedly punching and slapping the driver. The footage prompted immediate concern and condemnation from social media users who demanded action against the officer.
Swift Police Action Despite Lack of Formal Complaint
Senior traffic police officers stated that they took cognisance of the viral video on Tuesday, December 17. Acting promptly, the department placed the accused head constable under suspension and initiated a formal departmental inquiry into his conduct. A senior officer confirmed that further disciplinary measures would be determined based on the findings of this internal investigation.
Notably, the police have clarified that they have not received any official complaint from the taxi driver himself regarding the assault. The disciplinary action was undertaken solely based on the evidence presented in the viral video and the ensuing public outcry.
Bystanders Record and Intervene
The video evidence that led to the constable's suspension was provided by passersby at the scene. While some individuals recorded the altercation on their mobile phones, others stepped in to intervene. It was only after this intervention from the public that the head constable ceased assaulting the driver, bringing the distressing episode to an end.
This incident has once again brought the conduct of law enforcement personnel during public interactions under scrutiny. The Delhi Traffic Police's decision to suspend the officer pending an inquiry demonstrates a responsive approach to misconduct captured on camera, even in the absence of a formal victim complaint.
