A video allegedly showing a Delhi Traffic Police officer repeatedly slapping and punching a young man seated inside his car in the Paharganj area has triggered widespread outrage on social media, with users accusing the officer of abusing his authority and demanding strict action.

The footage, which has been widely shared on X and Instagram, has prompted calls for accountability and an official response from the authorities. Reacting to the backlash, Delhi Traffic Police said the complaint related to the incident has been forwarded to senior officers for examination.

What the viral video shows

The video appears to have been recorded from outside a white car, focusing on the driver’s side. It shows a uniformed traffic policeman leaning into the vehicle and striking the driver several times on his face and upper body. The blows look forceful, with repeated slaps and visible physical aggression.

Throughout the clip, the man inside the car remains seated, trying to shield himself from the attack. The assault continues for several seconds before the officer seems to realise that he is being filmed and steps away from the vehicle. The driver can be heard crying and gasping for breath.

In a later portion of the video, the traffic policeman is seen standing near the car, looking at his mobile phone, while the driver searches for something inside the vehicle.

Claims circulating on social media

Users sharing the video have claimed that the driver was assaulted for allegedly not carrying proper documents. Many described the incident as a clear case of misuse of power and questioned the legality of the officer’s actions.

Outraged reactions poured in online soon after the clip went viral. “12 hours have passed, by now the accused will be behind bars, will you confirm?” one X user said. Another commented, “What is this behaviour? If he doesn't have papers, will he be beaten up like this? There's no system of law, meaning a traffic cop takes the law into his own hands. Stop him, produce him in court.”

Several users also tagged Delhi Traffic Police, demanding transparency and immediate action. “Please take note and ensure appropriate action is taken, and inform on X. Also, kindly share the name of the policeman at the earliest so that an FIR can be filed against them,” one user wrote.

Police response so far

In response to the online backlash, Delhi Traffic Police asked users to share details such as the date, time and exact location of the incident. When pressed about what action had been initiated, the department replied, “Your complaint has been forwarded to senior officers.”

As of now, the police have not disclosed whether the officer involved has been identified or if any disciplinary action has been initiated. The circumstances that led to the confrontation between the traffic policeman and the driver also remain unclear.

Public outrage over alleged misuse of authority

The video has drawn sharp criticism from social media users, many of whom accused the officer of targeting a defenceless individual and acting outside the law.

“This is the real face of the very honest police of India,” one user commented. Another wrote, “Imagine this is the city where the Prime Minister lives. This is how Delhi traffic police treats the common man.”

Questioning the legality of the alleged assault, another user said, “Who gave them the right to beat the public? Even police cannot assault people. For a minor violation, a challan should be issued.”