UKHRUL: A case of alleged racial harassment in South Delhi has triggered widespread outrage after videos of a confrontation between three women from Arunachal Pradesh and their neighbours surfaced online.
According to the Delhi Police, an FIR has been registered at Malviya Nagar Police Station under Sections 79, 351(2), 3(5) and 196 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against Harsh Singh and his wife Ruby Jain, residents of Malviya Nagar. The case pertains to allegations of racial abuse, criminal intimidation, and promoting enmity.
Police said the incident occurred on February 20, when electrical installation and drilling work was being carried out at the women’s rented fourth-floor accommodation. During the process, dust and debris reportedly fell into the apartment below, where the accused couple resides.
What began as an objection over the inconvenience allegedly escalated into a heated verbal altercation. The complainants have accused the couple of making derogatory and racial remarks targeting them as women from the Northeast.
Clips circulating on social media appear to show the accused making offensive comments, including insinuations about the women’s character and profession. One of the complainants alleged they were called terms such as “dhandhewali” (prostitute) and “momo,” which she described as humiliating and discriminatory.
The women have maintained that the remarks were not only personally hurtful but also demeaned the broader northeastern community. They stated that the matter could have been resolved amicably through dialogue rather than escalating into racial abuse.
Police clarified that no physical assault was reported. However, the complaint details alleged mental harassment and public humiliation. Authorities said the investigation is underway and further action will be taken based on evidence.
Advocate Gaurav, representing Harsh Singh and Ruby Jain, said his client is “mentally disturbed” following the circulation of the videos and is receiving threats on social media. He asserted that the case is “not about racial discrimination” and added that his client has expressed regret over his words.
According to reports, the dispute intensified to the point of police intervention, with necessary formalities conducted at the scene. Later, the building’s broker reportedly informed the women that they would have to vacate the flat within two months, citing proposed repair and construction work.
However, the complainants said that after speaking with other residents, they were told that no such construction plans were known, raising further concerns.
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The women have demanded a formal apology from the accused, stating it should extend not only to them but to the entire northeastern community.
Special Commissioner of Police Robin Hibu has informed that he is closely monitoring the case.
The incident has once again reignited conversations around racial discrimination faced by individuals from India’s northeastern states in metropolitan cities, particularly in housing societies. Authorities have urged residents to maintain harmony and resolve disputes peacefully as the investigation continues.