A Mumbai Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) has been removed from field duty and is facing an internal inquiry following the viral circulation of a video showing him threatening student protesters with false drug charges and life imprisonment. The incident, which garnered significant public attention, occurred near the Mumbai University gate at its Kalina campus in Santacruz (East) during a student protest.

The officer, identified as Police Sub-Inspector Santosh Janardhanrao Deshmukh, was captured on video on May 10, 2024, confronting students who were protesting for candidates of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC). In the footage, Deshmukh is seen telling a female student, "Will book you in drug case... you will spend the rest of your life in jail." He further stated, "Will destroy your life."

The Mumbai Police swiftly responded to the incident. Following the video's widespread dissemination, PSI Deshmukh was removed from his field duties and subsequently attached to the Local Arms unit. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone VIII) Dixit Gedam has initiated a formal inquiry into the matter to ascertain the full scope of the incident and determine appropriate action.

  • Officer Involved: Police Sub-Inspector Santosh Janardhanrao Deshmukh.
  • Location of Incident: Near the Mumbai University gate, Kalina campus, Santacruz (East).
  • Date of Viral Video: May 10, 2024.
  • Nature of Threat: Accusations of booking students in drug cases and threatening life imprisonment.
  • Student Identification: One student, Aditi Gawade, was directly threatened, while another, Pooja More, recorded the interaction.
  • Protest Context: Students were protesting in support of Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) candidates.

The incident has sparked concerns regarding police conduct, the exercise of authority, and the rights of citizens to peaceful protest. Aditi Gawade, the student directly threatened, has filed an official complaint regarding the officer's behavior. Former Mumbai Police Commissioner and current Member of Parliament, Satyapal Singh, publicly commented on the incident, suggesting that the officer should be suspended.

The ongoing inquiry by DCP Gedam is expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the officer's actions and whether they align with police protocols and ethical standards. The findings of this inquiry will determine any further disciplinary measures against PSI Deshmukh and aim to reinforce public trust in the police force's commitment to due process and respectful engagement with citizens, particularly during protests.