Two cops suspended for caning scribe
Two constables of India Reserve Battalion were suspended on Tuesday for baton-charging a journalist during a protest rally by Chhatra Congress on Monday.
The two constables allegedly beat up the journalist of a popular Odia daily, Subhakant Padihary, who was covering the rally. He had alleged that despite showing his ID proof, the cops beat him up.
Padihary had demanded action against DCP Nitinjeet Singh and Airfield IIC G S Chakraborty. Director-General of Police Prakash Mishra said he will investigate into the incident. “I need 15 days to get to the bottom of the matter and will give the report before the Assembly session concludes,” Mishra said.
In order to ensure safety of journalists covering rallies, the Commissionrate Police would provide jackets mentioning media. “The mediapersons could be identified easily during any law and order situation,” the DGP said. An ACP will also be assigned during such incidents to coordinate between the journalists and the police.