Protesters in Hyderabad demand action against Delhi ACP over alleged assault on journalist

The Disha Students Organization organized a civic protest at the People’s Plaza in Hyderabad, condemning the sexual assault of a journalist and alleged violence against women protesters by the Delhi Police in Hyderabad on Sunday. | Photo credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR

A protest demanding the arrest of Delhi Police ACP Vivek Bhagat for allegedly sexually assaulting a journalist was held at the People’s Plaza in Hyderabad on Sunday, October 4, with participants raising slogans against patriarchy, police violence and alleged denial of justice to women.

The protest started around 6 p.m. and gradually attracted the attention of people in the area. As it was the weekend, several people who had come to nearby places stopped to watch the protest, with the gathering growing as speakers addressed the participants and slogans were raised.

Sreeja of Disha Students’ Organization said the incident raised questions about women’s safety despite government campaigns and assurances about women’s welfare. “There are attacks on women. The government talks about ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ but women are not safe anywhere in the country,” she said.

Another speaker Hari referred to Article 14 of the Constitution and said that the principle of equality before the law is yet to be fully realized in the society. He said people must speak against such incidents to bring about change.

Questioning the role of the police in dealing with crimes against women, Hari said that women usually approach the police with the expectation that they will be protected and that their complaints will be registered. Students’ organization Disha linked the alleged incident to wider concerns about patriarchy, women’s safety and democratic rights.

Published – 04 Oct 2026 20:47 IST