Dependra Pathak stated that permission had not been granted for a third Hanuman Jayanti yatra, but that when it started, police were there to keep the peace.
Following the violence that happened during Hanuman Jayanti celebrations in Jahangirpuri on April 16, 2022, many issues have been raised against the Delhi Police.
Videos clearly show that local citizens had been storing firearms in large quantities for some time and that the presence of police did not stop the stone-pelting and fights.
How did the special commissioner of Delhi Police, Dependra Pathak, answer some of these questions? He interviewed with a lot of media people.
“Inquiry into whether or not the incident was pre-planned is ongoing, and this is a small portion of it.”
The police presence was sufficient and responsive. When the verbal and physical conflicts began, the police stood like a wall between the two groups, ensuring that they did not come into direct contact with one another. “Our efforts were effective in bringing the situation under control in a short period and avoiding the loss of life,” he said.
Immediately after the yatra began, the police were there, and as the situation became worse, the police took action responsibly and forcefully.
His words also assured them that action had been taken against practically all of the people who owned weapons and that the weapons had been collected. Prosecutions have been filed against both parties on counts of rioting and attempted murder.
According to surveillance video, one such yatra took place in the region, with participants – including kids – carrying weapons. Later in the evening, a whole crowd armed with swords and other weapons came onto the streets.
When Pathak was questioned why a procession without permission was permitted, he said, “The third yatra permission letter was sent barely a day earlier, and we were unable to give it permission.” However, on that particular day, the people had already gathered.
The police officer attempted to talk them out of doing it. A police presence was maintained with them to ensure order.
He pledged to take decisive measures to prevent other anti-social groups from enforcing their laws. It will also be used against at least five people suspected of committing crimes in Jahangirpuri.
Pathak also dismissed claims of investigation bias. “These claims are false. Both sides have acted. We are professional,” he stated.
Publishe by: Gargi Sharma
Edited by: Aaradhana Singh
