JANTAR MANTAR PROTEST ERUPTS OVER ALLEGED HARASSMENT OF WOMEN JOURNALISTS

October 5, 2026

NEW DELHI — A protest at Jantar Mantar intensified after women journalists alleged sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct by police personnel during a demonstration, prompting demands for action against the officers involved.

The protesters alleged that women journalists covering the gathering were subjected to harassment while carrying out their professional duties. The allegations triggered anger among journalists and demonstrators, who called for accountability and an impartial inquiry into the conduct of the police.

Several protesters were detained by police during the demonstration as tensions escalated at the central Delhi protest site. The detentions further intensified demands that the authorities address the allegations rather than allowing the matter to remain unresolved.

The incident has raised broader concerns over the safety of women journalists while covering protests and public demonstrations. Journalists and civil society participants have demanded that law-enforcement agencies ensure that media personnel can perform their duties without intimidation, harassment or physical interference.

The protesters also called for disciplinary action against any police personnel found responsible for misconduct. They maintained that allegations involving the treatment of women journalists should be investigated seriously and transparently.

The episode has added to continuing debate over police conduct at protest sites and the safeguards required for journalists covering politically sensitive demonstrations. Further action is expected to depend on the authorities' response to the allegations and any subsequent inquiry.