A Mumbai Police personnel has been suspended after a viral video showing him threatening detained student protesters with false drug cases went viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage and prompting the Maharashtra government to order an inquiry.
The video, which has been widely shared on various online platforms, shows Pawan Sangle, a police personnel, warning students detained during recent protests that they could be implicated in fabricated narcotics cases if they continued to participate in demonstrations.
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In the clip, the officer is allegedly heard telling the students that they would “spend the rest of your life in jail” if they returned to the protests, remarks that have sparked criticism from opposition leaders, activists and civil rights groups.
Maharashtra government orders probe
Taking serious note of the incident, the Maharashtra government ordered a departmental inquiry into Sangle’s conduct. Officials confirmed that he has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
According to a senior state government official, the suspension was ordered after the video gained traction online and raised questions about police conduct during the detention of student protesters. Authorities clarified that Sangle was posted as a police driver and not serving in a senior operational role.
Video triggers outrage
The viral footage has intensified criticism over the treatment of students participating in the ongoing protests. Many social media users condemned the alleged threats, arguing that law enforcement officers should protect citizens’ rights rather than intimidate demonstrators.
The incident also drew reactions from public figures, including filmmaker and lyricist Varun Grover, who criticised the alleged conduct while expressing support for the students’ resilience.
Protests under scrutiny
The controversy comes amid continuing nationwide student protests over education-related issues. Demonstrations in several cities have witnessed heavy police deployment, detentions and clashes, with videos from protest sites frequently circulating on social media.
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Mumbai Police has not commented further on the contents of the viral clip beyond confirming the suspension and departmental inquiry. The investigation is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether disciplinary action beyond suspension is warranted.
FAQs
Why was Mumbai policeman Pawan Sangle suspended?
Pawan Sangle was suspended after a viral video allegedly showed him threatening detained student protesters by saying they could be framed in false drug cases. A departmental inquiry has also been ordered.
What did the viral video allegedly show?
The video purportedly showed the police driver warning detained students that if they continued protesting, they would be implicated in fake narcotics cases and spend the rest of their lives in jail
