Indian cop who kicked men during Muslim prayer suspended

NEW DELHI

Authorities in the Indian capital New Delhi suspended a police officer on Friday after he kicked men during congregational Muslim prayers - an incident captured in a video that went viral on social media, sparking outrage and condemnation.

The incident happened at the capital's Inderlok area, when people were performing Friday prayers on the road.

The video showed a police officer kicking several people as they were praying.

Locals in the area also blocked the road and demanded action against the policeman.

Regarding the incident, the Police Post Incharge “who was seen in the video (kicking men) has been suspended with immediate effect,” Delhi Police said in a statement, adding that “necessary disciplinary action is also been taken.”

The incident drew condemnation by India's main opposition party.

Congress “strongly condemns such inhuman acts during worship, namaz or prayer of any religion,” the Delhi unit of Indian National Congress wrote on X.

“The government should take immediate action against the guilty police personnel.”

Senior Delhi police officer Mukesh Kumar Meena told media this evening that the “situation in the area has been normalized and traffic has resumed in the area.”