The Meerut SSP Avinash Pandey controversy has sparked a political and public debate after videos of police action during a protest went viral. The demonstration was held to demand justice for 20-year-old Lalita Gautam, a Dalit college student who was murdered.
As the videos spread across social media, questions were raised about the police response. Meanwhile, SSP Avinash Pandey defended the action, saying officers acted to restore law and order after the protest allegedly turned violent.
Why Did the Protest Take Place?
The protest was organised outside the Collectorate in Meerut. Demonstrators demanded stricter action in the Lalita Gautam murder case and sought justice for the victim.
According to the police, the gathering did not have official permission. Officers claimed that some protesters blocked roads, disrupted traffic, and attempted to enter the District Magistrate’s office.
Police also alleged that some protesters clashed with security personnel after refusing repeated requests to disperse. As a result, officers detained several people and cleared the protest site.
Viral Video Draws Widespread Attention
The controversy intensified after videos from the protest surfaced online. One clip appeared to show SSP Avinash Pandey slapping protesters. Another showed him striking a detained person inside a police vehicle.
The footage quickly spread across social media. Soon after, opposition leaders and several social organisations criticised the police action and demanded an impartial inquiry.
However, authorities have not announced any disciplinary action against the SSP.
SSP Avinash Pandey Defends Police Action
Responding to the criticism, SSP Avinash Pandey rejected allegations of unnecessary force.
He claimed that detained protester Ravi Gautam tried to harm himself inside the police vehicle. According to the SSP, officers intervened immediately to prevent the alleged suicide attempt.
He also said the force used during the incident was meant to stop the situation from escalating. This explanation reflects the police version of events and has not been independently verified.
In addition, Pandey alleged that some organisers encouraged people to join the protest for reasons unrelated to the murder investigation.
Police Register Cases Against Protesters
Following the protest, police registered cases against several named and unidentified individuals.
Authorities alleged offences including unlawful assembly, obstructing government work, blocking public roads, damaging public order, and assaulting police personnel.
Several accused, including Ravi Gautam, were produced before a court and later sent to judicial custody.
Meanwhile, investigators are examining CCTV footage and viral videos to identify other people who may have been involved in the clashes.
Murder Investigation Continues
The Lalita Gautam murder case remains under investigation.
Police said the main accused was arrested shortly after the crime. Officials also claimed that other people accused of helping after the incident have been taken into custody.
However, some protesters continue to demand action against additional suspects whom they believe were involved.
Conclusion
The Meerut SSP Avinash Pandey controversy has shifted public attention from the murder case to the police response during the protest.
While police maintain that officers acted to control a violent situation, critics continue to question the use of force seen in the viral videos.
As both investigations continue, authorities are expected to face close public scrutiny. The final findings are likely to shape both the murder case and the debate over police conduct during public protests.
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