Allegations of Sexual Harassment Against Haryana IPS Officer Spark Row, What Vinesh Phogat Said?

A disturbing case has surfaced in Haryana, shedding light on concerns about the state’s law and order system. The case revolves around a viral letter reportedly sent to the Chief Minister of Haryana, signed by seven female police personnel, accusing a high-ranking IPS officer of sexual harassment. According to the letter, the officer allegedly used his position, with the aid of a female officer, to pressure victims into inappropriate relationships, threatening to tarnish their Annual Confidential Report (ACR) if they refused.

In response, Haryana’s Chief Minister has directed DGP Shatrujeet Kapoor to initiate an investigation into the accusations. Currently, Fatehabad Superintendent of Police (SP) Aastha Modi is overseeing the inquiry. SP Modi has recorded statements from 19 police personnel thus far, although no formal complaints have yet emerged. Regarding the progress of the case, SP Modi stated, "It would be premature to comment further; the investigation is ongoing."

MLA Vinesh Phogat Condemns Abuse of Power

The case has attracted significant public attention, with Julana MLA and celebrated wrestler Vinesh Phogat adding her voice to the outcry. Sharing the letter on social media, Phogat drew parallels to previous cases involving female athletes, writing, “Just as those supposed to protect wrestler daughters became their predators, the same is now happening to the daughters in Haryana Police. My faith in Haryana or the Central Government delivering justice to these policewomen is slim. Their voices have likely already been stifled, or are being suppressed daily." 

Phogat wrote further, "The entire system — police, political, and intermediary — is set up to weaken families and individuals, forcing them to accept injustice. Yet, just as all of society rallied for us, we and the community stand with these women. The guilty must be brought to justice.”

Women’s Commission Steps In, Demands Action

In addition to the ongoing police investigation, Haryana Women’s Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia has taken decisive steps to ensure that the case is handled promptly and transparently. She has directed DGP Shatrujeet Kapoor to submit a progress report within 24 hours and has summoned the accused IPS officer to appear before the Women’s Commission on October 30. 

“No matter the position held by the accused, there will be accountability, and justice will be served,” Bhatia asserted, underscoring the commission's commitment to addressing the issue.

Accused Officer Denies Allegations, Requests Probe

Meanwhile, the accused IPS officer has denied the claims outlined in the viral letter. He has stated that those named in the letter claim it was not written by them, and that he personally requested an investigation to address the accusations. The officer further said that the woman who had made allegation regarding undermining the ACRs has also distanced herself from the letter. 

As the investigation unfolds, it will test the commitment of Haryana’s law enforcement and political systems to upholding justice and addressing allegations of abuse within the ranks.