UP Policewomen Caught Taking Selfies Near Gangrape Survivor

A disturbing image of policewomen in Uttar Pradesh clicking selfies while a gangrape survivor lies in hospital before them has gone viral. The policewomen are smiling and taking selfies next to the woman’s bed. The survivor was raped by two men on a train and even forced to drink acid.

After the picture went viral, the Uttar Pradesh police suspended the policewomen and ordered an inquiry into their behaviour.

Chief Minister of UP, Yogi Adityanath, also visited the survivor and told the police to make sure her attackers were arrested. They were caught hours later. The CM also announced that the survivor would be given Rs 1 lakh in assistance.

The two accused are Bhondu and Guddu Singh. After the crime, the woman had gone to the police, unable to speak and had written down her complaint.

This was the fourth time she was attacked with acid, she has alleged. She works at a cafe in Lucknow, which is run by acid attack survivors, and was on her way back home on the train when she was attacked.

She is currently receiving treatment at King George’s Medical University. Inspector General A Satish Ganesh has said that the constables' actions were ‘insensitive’ and he has promised action.

Police sensitivity training is quickly becoming an issue that needs to be addressed. In an age when everyone has access to a smartphone and technology, it is imperative that we are taught how to use technology responsibly.

Also Read: Body shaming and popular media: the Selfie Culture