Guwahati, 16th August: Assam’s Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh issued a public apology on August 16 after a video surfaced online showing police officers using canes, or lathis, on a group of people during a routine vehicle inspection. The video, which quickly gained attention on social media platform X, has ignited a debate over police conduct in the state.
In the video, police personnel are seen interacting with motorcyclists, with several bystanders observing the scene. At one point, an officer appears to strike a person on the lower back with a cane. Although the exact date and location of the incident have not been confirmed, the presence of a national flag in the background suggests it may have taken place on August 15.
Reacting to the video, DGP Singh expressed regret over the incident. “I profusely apologise for the unwarranted use of force or harsh measures,” he stated in his post on X. Singh also addressed the broader issue of police conduct, advising his colleagues to limit the use of force to situations involving unlawful assemblies or criminals. “Use of lawful force should be restricted to unlawful assemblies and against criminals and nowhere else,” he emphasized.
Singh further assured the public that appropriate actions had been taken following the incident. “The concerned police personnel and supervisory officers have been suitably advised and counselled,” he reported.
The apology and subsequent response by the Assam police leadership underscore the importance of maintaining public trust and ensuring that law enforcement actions are carried out within the bounds of legality and propriety.
Read More: Assam Launches Innovative Fish Powder Program to Combat Child Malnutrition