New Delhi, September 5 2026: Two female journalists affiliated with 4PM News Network have alleged that after attempting to question Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta at an event in South Delhi, they were taken into custody by Delhi Police personnel at Saket Police Station and physically assaulted.
Journalists Shahin Khan and Nafisa Khan claim that the police became more aggressive after asking for their names and realizing they were Muslim. However, Delhi Police have strongly denied these allegations, calling them “factually incorrect” and “misleading.”
What happened at the event?
The journalists had gone to Max Hospital in Saket to cover the inauguration of a new branch; the event was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
According to the journalists, they tried to ask the chief minister a question but the police stopped them and took them to Saket Police Station. They later alleged that they were attacked inside the police station.
The journalists say their religious identity prompted the further assault
Shahin Khan said in a video report that the police asked for her name, she identified herself as Khan, after which the officials assumed she was Muslim and their behavior turned more violent.
The journalists alleged slapping and beating, and a video circulated on social media showed signs of injuries and wounds. In one video, Nafisa was seen being supported as she exited the police station.
These allegations have not been independently verified and remain subject to competing claims.
Delhi Police reject the assault allegations
Delhi Police have dismissed the claim that the journalists were attacked because of their religion or for asking questions.
According to the police, the women were taken into custody after they allegedly blocked an exit and parked a scooter on a route being used for a VVIP movement. The police also said there was a clash with personnel deployed for security.
DCP (South) Anant Mittal said the accusations of religious targeting and assault are false and misleading.
The incident fuels debate over media freedom
The allegations have sparked strong reactions from journalist organisations and opposition parties.
The Press Club of India, Indian Women Press Corps, Delhi Union of Journalists, Press Association and Kerala Union of Working Journalists have condemned the alleged assault and demanded an independent investigation and action against those responsible.
Some political leaders from the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have also criticised the reported treatment of the journalists.
Calls for CCTV investigation
The controversy has raised demands for a transparent probe into the events that took place inside Saket Police Station.
Media organisations have called for establishing the chronology of events and determining whether any official…
