Outrage has erupted on social media after videos surfaced showing police officers allegedly manhandling Simran Gupta, popularly known as “Model Chaiwali,” late at night on a busy street in Lucknow. The incident, captured on CCTV and widely shared online, has sparked a wave of criticism against the police from political parties and the general public alike.

Who is Simran Gupta?

Simran Gupta, once a model and winner of Miss Gorakhpur, left her modeling career to open a tea stall in Lucknow under the name “Model Chaiwali.” Her unique journey has made her a well-known figure on social media.

What Happened?

According to viral videos and eyewitness accounts, the incident took place late Sunday night at the Engineering College Chauraha in Lucknow. The footage shows police officers, including a female officer, grabbing Simran by the collar and dragging her. A man in plain clothes also appears to snatch her phone as she tries to record the incident. Simran can be heard shouting, “Why did you slap me? I haven’t stolen anything or done anything wrong. Why are you touching me?”

A young man present with Simran tried to intervene but was allegedly assaulted and abused by the police as well. The altercation escalated, with three officers appearing to physically attack both Simran and her companion.

Police Version

The police claim they were enforcing an order requiring all shops to close by 11 PM. They allege that Simran’s tea stall was open past the deadline, despite previous warnings. When officers attempted to close the shop, an argument broke out, leading to the confrontation seen in the video. Police say they issued a fine to Simran and warned her not to keep her shop open late in the future.

Simran’s Allegations

Simran, however, accuses the police of harassment and misconduct. She claims that for over a year, local officers have been troubling her but she never made it public until now. According to Simran, the officers arrived in plain clothes and a private car, and her shop was not open at the time. She alleges that she was assaulted both at the scene and later at the police station, where she was forced to sign papers under duress.

Simran has filed a formal complaint against the officers, accusing them of misbehavior and physical assault.

Background

This is not the first time Simran has faced controversy. A month earlier, she was involved in a dispute with another tea vendor, which also led to police fines for several shops.

Next Steps

Police officials have stated that an investigation is underway. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation on social media, with many demanding accountability and justice for Simran Gupta.

As the story develops, all eyes remain on the Lucknow police and local authorities to see how they respond to these serious allegations.