Varanasi: A head constable of the 34th Battalion Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) was suspended after a video surfaced on social media showing a violent altercation with a woman near the Satyanarayan temple, located near Gate No. 4 of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and prompted a departmental inquiry.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, the confrontation began when the head constable, identified as Radheshyam Yadav, attempted to remove flower vendors from the area. During the dispute, Yadav allegedly threw the woman's goods onto the street. In retaliation, the woman struck him with a stick. The constable then grabbed the stick, pinned the woman to the ground, and pulled her hair while beating her back. A bystander recorded the altercation, and the video quickly went viral on social media platforms.
Departmental Action
Following an internal inquiry, head constable Radheshyam Yadav of the 34th Battalion PAC was suspended. Deputy Commandant Rajkumar of the PAC 34th Battalion confirmed that a departmental enquiry against Yadav is in progress. He stated that the investigation revealed that the woman involved is a florist who frequently quarrels with devotees over petty issues. On the day of the incident, May 19, she was arguing with a pilgrim when the PAC head constable deployed there tried to pacify her. However, she turned violent and attacked the head constable. In response, the constable lost his cool and reacted aggressively.
The deputy commandant emphasized that the matter is being taken seriously and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the departmental enquiry. The suspension of Yadav is an interim measure pending the completion of the investigation.
This incident has raised questions about the conduct of security personnel and the treatment of vendors near religious sites. Local authorities have urged the public to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
