NAINITAL: Tension gripped the Kainchi Dham area late Saturday night after two policemen deployed for the annual foundation day celebrations were accused of molesting a local woman and assaulting her family members when they resisted.The incident triggered protests by residents and traders, prompting departmental proceedings, including suspension and possible dismissal from service, against the accused personnel.According to police, the accused personnel, including an ASI and a constable, who were deployed from Udham Singh Nagar district, allegedly molested the daughter of a local homestay operator and assaulted her family members when they intervened.Following a complaint by the woman’s father, Bhowali police filed a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) section for molestation and initiated legal proceedings.Officials said medical examinations conducted at the Bhowali CHC indicated that “both accused personnel were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident”.SSP Manjunath TC said, “Departmental proceedings have been initiated against the accused personnel. Besides suspension, action including dismissal from service is being considered. The law is equal for everyone, including police personnel. Any criminal conduct or dereliction of duty will invite immediate action.”The incident sparked protests, with residents and traders raising slogans against the police administration.They alleged that tensions had been building since Saturday morning over security and traffic arrangements put in place ahead of the foundation day on June 15. They also claimed that police had imposed excessive restrictions on movement in and around the temple area.
