Journalist Richa Parashar Files Police Complaint Against Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Manhandling

New Delhi: Journalist Richa Parashar has filed a formal police complaint against Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, alleging that she was grabbed, pulled, and pushed down steps while covering an opposition protest at the Supreme Court.The complaint, lodged with Delhi Police, accuses Gandhi and his security personnel of manhandling her during the INDIA bloc’s demonstration over electoral roll revisions.

The incident reportedly took place near the gates of the Supreme Court premises, where INDIA bloc leaders had gathered as part of their ongoing protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Summary Revision (SIR) exercise.

Alleges Pulling and Shoving Outside Court Gates

In her statement and video recordings from her hospital bed, Parashar—who is in her first trimester of pregnancy—claimed she was waiting to capture a soundbite from Gandhi as he exited the court building.She stated that as media personnel extended their microphones, the Congress leader moved forward, grabbed her hand, and pulled her forcibly.

According to her account:

• Alleged Physical Contact:Parashar claimed Rahul Gandhi grabbed her hand and yanked her before his security detail shoved her backward.
• Fall on Steps:She fell face-first down the Supreme Court steps onto her knees and stomach, with her cameraperson and others in the crowd falling on top of her amid the scuffle.
• Property Damage & Injuries:She reported receiving injuries to her hand and knees, severe stomach pain, and a shattered mobile phone during the incident.
• Medical Care:She was initially taken to a local medical facility before being shifted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for further evaluation and an ultrasound.

Congress Rejects Charges as BJP Backs Journalist

The allegations have triggered a sharp political confrontation between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Senior BJP leaders, including party spokespersons and local office bearers, visited Parashar in hospital and condemned the alleged behavior, demanding an investigation into the matter.

Congress leaders have vehemently denied the charges, calling the allegations politically motivated propaganda.Congress spokesperson Alka Lamba questioned the timeline and circumstances of the incident, asserting that viral video footage from the spot shows no physical assault by Gandhi and pointing out that media scuffles are common during crowded political events.

Delhi Police officials confirmed receipt of Parashar's written complaint and stated that the matter is under examination.