CJP alleges assault on Sonam Wangchuk's wife, minor girl injured in protest

The Climate Justice Parliament (CJP) has accused Delhi Police of brutality against protesters, alleging that activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife was assaulted and a 12-year-old girl suffered a fractured skull. The claims surfaced during an ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar in the national capital.

Allegations of assault

CJP representatives stated that on Sunday evening, police personnel used force to disperse a peaceful sit-in. They claimed Wangchuk's wife, who was present at the site, was pushed and manhandled. The most serious charge involves a minor girl, reportedly 12 years old, who they said was hit on the head with a baton, resulting in a fracture.

"This is a brutal attack on peaceful protesters. A child's head has been broken. We demand an immediate inquiry and action against the officers responsible," a CJP spokesperson said.

Police response

Delhi Police has strongly refuted the allegations. In a statement issued on Monday, a senior officer called the claims "completely false and baseless."

"No such incident occurred. Our personnel acted with restraint and within the law. The CJP is spreading misinformation to gain sympathy," the officer said.

Police have also said that video footage from the location is being reviewed, and initial checks show no evidence of the alleged assault on Wangchuk's wife or the minor.

Human rights body seeks probe

A national human rights commission has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports regarding the 12-year-old's injury. It has sought a detailed report from the Delhi Police commissioner within 24 hours.

The commission has asked for the girl's medical records and a statement from the officers present at the protest site. It has also directed that no coercive action be taken against the protesters pending the inquiry.

Protest continues

Sonam Wangchuk, the Ladakh-based climate activist, remains on a fast-unto-death at Jantar Mantar. The government held a meeting with protesters on Sunday, but Wangchuk said he would continue his fast until their demands are met.

"I will continue my fast. The dialogue is welcome, but we need concrete action," Wangchuk told reporters.

Activist and author Gitanjali Angmo joined the protest march on Monday, urging demonstrators to remain peaceful. "Stay focused on education, march peacefully. Our strength is in our discipline," she said.

What next

The human rights body's report is expected within 24 hours. The CJP has said it will release its own video evidence of the alleged assault. The Delhi Police's video review is also likely to be made public. The standoff between the protesters and the government shows no immediate signs of resolution.