Mumbai Police Driver Threatens to Frame CJP Protestors; Enquiry Ordered
The Mumbai Police have ordered an enquiry against a police driver after a viral video showed him threatening to plant drugs on protestors detained during a demonstration by the group Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP). The driver has been temporarily removed from his post pending the investigation.
In the video, recorded by protestors inside a police van, the driver is heard saying in Hindi: “If I see you here again, there won’t be anyone worse than me. I will directly plant 50 grams of powder in your pockets, and it will ensure you won’t get bail and your life will be ruined.” The remark referred to framing the detainees with a drug offence, which in India carries severe penalties.
The incident occurred during a protest organised by CJP, a human rights group that has been critical of the government's policies. The video quickly spread on social media, drawing widespread condemnation. Activists and opposition leaders called for strict action, alleging abuse of power by police.
On Thursday, a senior police official confirmed that an enquiry has been initiated against the driver, who has been reassigned from his current duties. The officer stated that any misconduct would be dealt with according to the law, and that the police force does not condone such behaviour.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about police accountability and the treatment of protestors in India. Legal experts note that threatening to fabricate evidence violates constitutional guarantees of a fair trial and the right to life and liberty.
The CJP has welcomed the enquiry but demanded a transparent process and an apology from the police department. Meanwhile, the driver’s identity has not been officially released, and he has not yet commented publicly.
