Richa Parashar, the journalist who alleged that Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi shoved her in a crowd, walked into the DCP New Delhi District office today to file a formal criminal complaint. She is demanding the immediate registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Gandhi and others involved in the incident. The complaint stems from an alleged altercation outside the Supreme Court on October 12, where Parashar claims Gandhi physically pushed her while attempting to move through a dense gathering of supporters and media personnel.
The move escalates what began as a viral video clip into a formal legal proceeding. Parashar’s team has now shifted from social media grievances to structured legal action, citing sections of the Indian Penal Code related to criminal force and harassment. The DCP’s office has acknowledged the receipt of the complaint and is expected to review the documentary evidence, including the original video footage and witness statements, before making a determination.
Rahul Gandhi’s office has not yet issued a public response to the criminal complaint. However, his spokesperson had previously dismissed the initial allegations as “malicious” and “politically motivated,” stating that the journalist was “pushing through” the crowd and not the other way around. Legal experts note that the registration of an FIR in such high-profile cases often depends on the clarity of the video evidence and the credibility of the complainant’s account.
The next step lies with the DCP New Delhi District, who must decide within the next 48 hours whether to register the FIR or issue a notice to the complainant for additional information. If an FIR is registered, the case will be investigated by the local police station, and Rahul Gandhi will be summoned for questioning. The Supreme Court’s protocol division has also been notified, as the incident occurred in its immediate vicinity.