Racism – Gogoi Seeks Action After Delhi Abuse Case
Racism – Congress Member of Parliament Gaurav Gogoi has strongly criticized the alleged racial harassment of women from Arunachal Pradesh in the national capital, calling for immediate intervention by authorities and adequate protection for the complainants.
The lawmaker described the episode as alarming and unacceptable, stressing that citizens from the North-East should not feel marginalized within their own country. He said such incidents highlight the persistence of bias and urged officials to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.
Incident Reported in South Delhi
The controversy stems from an altercation in Malviya Nagar, where three women from Arunachal Pradesh, residing as tenants in an apartment building, allegedly faced racial slurs and intimidation from neighbors. The incident prompted police action and has since sparked broader conversations about discrimination in urban India.
Authorities confirmed that a formal complaint was filed at the local police station in South Delhi. A First Information Report has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The sections invoked relate to intentional insult, criminal intimidation, promoting enmity, and acts committed with common intention.
Dispute Over Construction Work
According to police officials, the confrontation occurred on the afternoon of February 20, 2026. The three tenants were supervising electrical installation work inside their rented apartment. During the process, drilling allegedly caused dust and debris to fall into the lower-floor residence.
What began as a complaint about construction-related inconvenience reportedly escalated into a heated exchange. The downstairs occupants—identified in the complaint as Harsh Singh and Ruby Jain—went upstairs to confront the tenants. It was during this exchange that the women alleged they were subjected to verbal abuse and threats.
While no physical assault was reported, the complainants have stated that they experienced humiliation and mental distress. Police officials noted that the accused individuals have joined the investigation and are being questioned as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Political Response and Call for Accountability
Reacting to the case, Gogoi emphasized that incidents involving racial discrimination must not be dismissed as minor neighborhood disputes. He stated that equal citizenship must translate into equal respect and safety for every individual, regardless of region or background.
He further urged law enforcement agencies to ensure accountability under the law and to provide complete security and assistance to the women who filed the complaint. According to him, addressing such cases firmly is essential to reinforce public confidence in the justice system.
The issue has once again drawn attention to the experiences of people from India’s North-East living in metropolitan cities. Advocacy groups have in the past raised concerns about stereotyping and discriminatory behavior faced by residents from the region.
Investigation Underway
Police officials confirmed that the investigation is progressing and that statements from both sides have been recorded. Authorities are examining evidence and witness accounts to determine the sequence of events and whether the charges under the criminal code are substantiated.
Officials reiterated that appropriate legal steps will follow based on the findings of the investigation. Meanwhile, community leaders and public representatives have called for sensitivity and respect in multicultural urban settings.
The case continues to develop as authorities complete their inquiry, with broader discussions emerging about inclusion, equality, and the responsibilities of citizens in shared residential spaces.