A woman sub-inspector of the Uttar Pradesh Police has found herself at the centre of a major controversy after a video of her verbally abusing and threatening a young couple during a traffic jam in Meerut went viral on social media. The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, has sparked widespread criticism and led to immediate disciplinary action against the officer.
The Viral Incident and Heated Confrontation
The altercation took place near Meerut's Bombay Bazaar area. According to police sources, the officer, identified as Sub-Inspector Ratna Rathi posted in Aligarh, was returning home to Meerut from Muzaffarnagar in her private vehicle. She was reportedly upset after being caught in a traffic snarl and not being given the right of way despite being in uniform.
In the widely circulated video, SI Ratna Rathi is seen stepping out of her car and launching into a furious tirade against a man in another vehicle. The police officer in uniform is heard using abusive language and making shocking threats. She allegedly told the man, "I am a police officer in uniform, I will urinate in your mouth." She also threatened him with dire consequences, including sending him to jail and beating him with a belt.
Eyewitnesses stated that when a woman accompanying the man tried to intervene, the sub-inspector also misbehaved with her. Shocked bystanders recorded the incident on their mobile phones, and the clips were widely shared on social media platforms on Monday, triggering public outrage.
Police Response and Immediate Action
Senior police officials swiftly moved to identify the officer after the video surfaced. Meerut SSP Vipin Tada confirmed that her identity was established and that necessary information was shared with the police in Aligarh district, where she is posted.
Following this, Aligarh SSP Neeraj Jadaun informed on Tuesday that SI Ratna Rathi has been attached to the police lines with immediate effect. Instructions have been issued for a detailed probe into the entire matter to ascertain the facts and take appropriate action.
Police clarified that the sub-inspector had travelled to Muzaffarnagar to investigate a case related to the Dowry Prohibition Act and was on her way back when the incident occurred. Authorities also noted that the couple involved in the altercation has not yet approached the police to file a formal complaint.
Public Outcry and Questions on Conduct
The viral video has ignited a fierce debate on social media and among citizens about police conduct and accountability. Many users expressed anger and disappointment at the officer's behaviour, questioning the abuse of power and the language used by someone in a position of authority.
Incidents like these severely damage public trust in law enforcement agencies. The swift action to attach the officer to the police lines indicates the department's recognition of the seriousness of the misconduct. The outcome of the detailed inquiry ordered by the Aligarh SSP will be closely watched to see if it leads to more stringent disciplinary measures.
This event underscores the ongoing challenges within police forces regarding temperament control and public interaction, especially in stressful situations like traffic congestion. It serves as a reminder of the need for continuous training and strict enforcement of codes of conduct for all officers.
