New Delhi/Alive News: Delhi Police Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Manasvi Vashishth has been suspended following a protest by police personnel outside the Delhi Police headquarters on November 2, according to police sources. Around 150 personnel had gathered at the headquarters demanding the cancellation of the transfers of ACP Vashishth and Station House Officer (SHO) Arun Kumar.
The protesting personnel also demanded that both officers be reinstated to their previous postings. ACP Vashishth reportedly led the demonstration and sought an opportunity for police personnel to present their grievances before senior officials.
Dispute began after alleged assault on lawyer
The controversy between police personnel and lawyers began on October 23 following an alleged assault on lawyer Lalit Bansal at Shahdara Police Station. Members of the legal fraternity accused ACP Vashishth and SHO Arun Kumar of misbehaviour and threatening lawyers.
Following the allegations, lawyers launched a protest. Subsequently, both officers were transferred on October 28, after which the lawyers called off their agitation.
Police personnel opposed transfers
The transfers triggered resentment among some police personnel, who demanded the reinstatement of the two officers. Messages were circulated in Delhi Police WhatsApp groups on November 2, urging personnel to reach police headquarters and participate in the protest.
District DCPs and unit heads were reportedly instructed to prevent personnel from joining the demonstration. However, around 150 police personnel gathered outside the headquarters.
New Delhi DCP Sachin Sharma reached the spot and attempted to persuade the protesters to call off their agitation. The personnel, however, remained firm on their demands and later met Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar.
Police personnel have limited right to protest
Under the Police-Forces (Restriction of Rights) Act, 1966, police personnel face restrictions on participating in demonstrations and joining certain associations without permission. Violations can attract imprisonment of up to two years, a fine of ₹2,000, or both, subject to the provisions of the Act.
Meanwhile, although ACP Vashishth’s suspension has been reported by police sources, the detailed suspension order and official reasons for the action have not yet been made public.
