On Sunday, during a routine inspection of the Outer Ring Road, PWD Minister Parvesh Verma slapped 22‑year‑old Sahib Singh, who was filming the work, prompting Delhi Police to file an NCR under Section 115. The incident, captured on video, went viral across social media and drew criticism from opposition parties. Verma defended his action as a response to what he described as attempts by AAP workers to impede government officials, while Jarnail Singh had earlier questioned the road’s quality and was subsequently charged for obstructing public servants.
Delhi Police recorded complaints from Sahib Singh and a PWD assistant engineer. DCP Hareshwar Swami said the investigation will also cover other complaints related to the incident, and that a magistrate will be approached for permission to proceed with the NCR. The police noted that Sahib Singh had been accused in a June assault case involving an MCD worker, adding complexity to the matter.
The FIR against Singh was lodged on the complaint of a PWD assistant engineer, citing obstruction of duty. Verma’s own statements suggest he believed Singh was an AAP associate with a prior case against him. The BJP expressed regret over the incident but labeled Sahib Singh a habitual offender.
Police will now investigate the NCR and FIR concurrently. A magistrate’s approval is required before the NCR can be pursued, and hearings are expected to be scheduled in the coming weeks.