Cop slapping woman in Paldi: Constable suspended, woman accused of using abusive language

A traffic police constable has landed in controversy after a video purportedly showing him assaulting a woman following a heated argument at Anjali crossroads in Paldi, Ahmedabad went viral on social media, triggering public outrage and prompting police intervention.

As per the complaint submitted by Bansari Thakkar at the Paldi police station, the incident took place on Friday evening when she was stopped by a traffic policeman at Anjali crossroads. The constable reportedly asked her to produce her driving licence.

In her application, Thakkar stated that as she attempted to show her licence, the traffic constable suddenly lost his temper. During the altercation, the policeman’s identity card allegedly fell to the ground, after which he kicked her moped and slapped her, causing her injuries.

Following the incident, Thakkar dialled the 112 police control room, after which the matter was referred to the Paldi Police Station. She alleged that initially, police personnel at the station refused to register her complaint and warned her that a cross-complaint would be filed against her.

However, after the video of the incident circulated widely on social media, police officials said they have now initiated the process of registering a complaint and examining the sequence of events. “The matter is under scrutiny, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry,” a senior police officer said.

The incident has once again raised questions over conduct and accountability of traffic police personnel in public spaces, with authorities stating that departmental action will follow if the allegations are substantiated.

Senior officers have also assured that strict action will be taken against the traffic constable concerned, as per the directions of the Joint Commissioner of Police, if the allegations are found to be true.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Bhavna Patel, stated that “The woman was stopped for violating traffic rules by riding without a helmet. During the interaction, she allegedly used abusive language, following which the head constable resorted to physical force. As the constable’s conduct was in clear violation of police protocol, he has been placed under suspension. "

"A separate case will also be registered against the woman for obstructing police work,” said further said Patel.