Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 4: Two freelance women journalists have alleged that they were detained and assaulted by Delhi Police personnel inside Saket police station while covering a public event in South Delhi on September 3. Police, however, have rejected the allegations as “baseless”, “factually incorrect” and “misleading”.
The journalists, Shaheen Khan and Nafisa Khan, were reportedly covering the event for digital news platform and YouTube channel 4PM News Network, which was attended by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
According to the journalists, they were attempting to question the Chief Minister about an alleged “cycle scam” when police personnel stopped them. They claimed they were subsequently taken into a closed room at Saket police station, where a woman police personnel in plain clothes allegedly slapped and beat them with sticks.
The journalists further alleged that identity- and community-based slurs were used against them during the incident. Videos circulated online purportedly showing injury marks on their arms and legs have added to the controversy.
Delhi Police has disputed the allegations, saying the journalists were not removed for attempting to question political leaders. According to police, their scooter was obstructing a designated VVIP security route and the two repeatedly refused to comply with security instructions.
The conflicting accounts have led to calls for an independent investigation into the incident.
Several journalist organisations, including the Press Club of India, Indian Women’s Press Corps and Delhi Union of Journalists, have condemned the alleged assault and demanded a fair probe. They have also sought action against the Station House Officer of Saket police station and urged Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar to investigate the matter.
The incident has also drawn political criticism, with Aam Aadmi Party leaders condemning the alleged use of force and accusing the government of failing to protect press freedom.
The journalists said they visited AIIMS for medical examinations and to document their alleged injuries through medico-legal case reports. Protests and sit-ins were also reportedly held outside Saket police station, with demonstrators demanding registration of an FIR against the police personnel allegedly involved.
The controversy comes amid previous action against 4PM News Network. In May 2025, the Centre ordered the blocking of the platform’s YouTube channel, citing national security and public order concerns. Its editor-in-chief, Sanjay Sharma, challenged the decision in the Supreme Court, which issued notice to the Centre and other respondents. The government later withdrew the blocking order.