Lucknow | In a significant development in the Model Chaiwali assault case, the Allahabad High Court (Lucknow Bench) has taken serious note of the allegations of police brutality and has expressed its strong displeasure over the incident that occurred in the Madiyaon police station limits of Lucknow.
The court has directed the Lucknow Police Commissioner to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and submit a detailed report in the form of a sworn affidavit within six weeks. The directive has opened the door for strict departmental and legal action against the police personnel found guilty.
The case stems from a complaint filed by a woman popularly known as Model Chaiwali, who alleged that she was physically assaulted and abused by police personnel late on the night of June 8 near her tea stall located at the Engineering College Chauraha.
According to the complaint, the then In-charge of Ram-Ram Bank Chowki, Alok Kumar Chaudhary, along with constables Abhishek Yadav, Durgesh Kumar Verma, and woman constable Kiran, allegedly assaulted and misbehaved with her while she was supervising some repair work at her shop.
Aggrieved by the incident and the lack of action, the woman moved the High Court seeking justice. During the recent hearing, the court expressed serious concern over alleged police misconduct and emphasized the need for accountability within the force.
The court’s direction to the Police Commissioner is seen as a strong message against misuse of power and police excesses, especially towards small business owners and women entrepreneurs.
Sources close to the investigation suggest that the internal inquiry has already begun and statements from eyewitnesses and CCTV footage from the vicinity are being reviewed. If the allegations are corroborated, disciplinary proceedings and possible suspension or prosecution of the accused officers are likely.
The case has also sparked outrage among civil society groups and women’s rights activists in Lucknow, many of whom have condemned the police’s alleged highhandedness and demanded swift justice for the victim.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are now on the Lucknow Police Commissioner’s office and the upcoming report that will decide the future of the accused officers. The High Court is expected to take up the matter for further hearing after the stipulated six-week period.
