High Court Rejects Removal of Officer Who Slapped Protester, Calls for Fair Trial

The Delhi High Court, in a decision delivered by Justice Girish Kathpalia, refused to order the removal of a police officer who slapped a woman protester during a demonstration. The officer, who was under investigation for the incident, had been considered for suspension pending the outcome of the case. Justice Kathpalia noted that while any wrongdoing by the officer would be dealt with according to the law, the court could not presume guilt before a fair trial. He stressed that the judiciary must remain impartial and allow the legal process to determine the officer’s culpability. The ruling underscores the court’s commitment to due process in cases involving police conduct.