my uttarakhand news Bureau
DEHRADUN, 3 Jan: Well-known animal activist Mala Malhotra has alleged that the Dehradun police have failed to act with the required seriousness on her complaint despite the registration of an FIR and assurances of strict action given by the District Magistrate, Dehradun. Malhotra claims she and her family were assaulted, abused and threatened outside their rented residence in Jyoti Vihar, Dharampur Dhandha, under the Nehru Colony police station area in the last week of October.
According to Malhotra, an FIR was registered on October 30, 2025 under Section 173 of the BNS against Swati Negi, her brother Ashish Naithani, police constable Pradeep Juyal, and Juyal’s parents for misbehaviour, criminal intimidation and creating a nuisance. She alleged that the incident was a pre-planned attack, carried out in connivance with constable Juyal, who is posted with the Local Intelligence Unit and resides in the same neighbourhood.
Providing background, Malhotra stated that she had lodged a complaint around six months ago accusing Juyal of repeated harassment, and an investigation in that case is stated to be in progress. She alleged that after pursuing the complaint, she was subjected to intimidation and pressure to accept a false compromise, which she refused to sign.
At an appropriate place in the narrative of events, Malhotra also alleged that Swati Negi frequently makes provocative and abusive posts on social media platforms, targeting Hindus and the Hindu religion, thereby adding to tensions in the locality.
Malhotra further alleged that despite the District Magistrate directing senior police officials, including the SSP and the City Circle Officer, to take strict action and assuring her that the accused would not be spared, the police response on the ground has remained apathetic. She claimed that one of the accused has been absconding since the FIR was registered.
The animal activist, known for her work in animal welfare and rescue, said she and her husband had taken the premises on rent solely for professional recording work and had no prior disputes with the accused. She has demanded impartial investigation, prompt action under all applicable sections, and protection from further harassment.
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