Mumbai CP orders probe into cops’ harassment of youngsters

Police commissioner Dattatray Padsalgikar on Tuesday ordered that an inquiry be initiated against Colaba police officers after three youths, who were sitting at Gateway of India on Saturday night, was allegedly abused and harassed by the police. The matter came to light after the youths shot a video of the incident and shared it on Facebook.

Shedding light on the progress of the case, Mumbai police spokesperson, DCP A. Dudhe said, “Our team has started an inquiry into the matter. We are taking down the statements of the victims and witnesses.”

Three youths who were at the Gateway of India for a weekend meet have alleged that they were harassed by a group of Colaba police officers, who allegedly misbehaved with them. The incident took place at 3 am.”

Police inspector A. Pathare from the Colaba police said, “Our officers, who were on the night duty, found these three boys drinking alcohol in the night near the radio club. When our officers asked them why they had stayed back so late, the youngsters answered back.”

Sources said, “The youths in their complaint lodged on Monday alleged that while they were chatting, a patrolling van arrived and police approached them with abusive language after which a fight broke out among them. In the complaint, the youths said the police ordered them to vacate the place immediately, after which a video clip was recorded and uploaded on Facebook by one of the youngsters. “

Recounting the incident, one of the boys said, “I told the police team that it’s a sad thing that one cannot stand near his car in this country. Then the policeman came up to me, abused me and said if you don’t like the country, go and live in Pakistan.”