New Delhi: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday issued a strong assurance of action following an incident of racial abuse involving three women from Arunachal Pradesh in south Delhi. The case, which triggered widespread outrage after a video went viral on social media, has renewed concerns over the safety and dignity of people from the Northeast living in the national capital.
Speaking to the media for the first time on the matter, Rijiju said he had been personally monitoring developments and coordinating with authorities to ensure swift justice. He stressed that protecting the dignity of people from the Northeast was a responsibility he takes seriously and said firm legal action would be pursued so that such behaviour is not repeated.
Rijiju said his office has remained in constant touch with the victims as well as the Delhi Police since the incident came to light. He confirmed that arrests have already been made and emphasised that the government stands firmly with the affected women. According to him, there is no reason for people from the Northeast to feel unsafe, as authorities are committed to acting decisively in such cases.
Highlighting past challenges faced by Northeastern communities in other parts of the country, Rijiju said conditions have improved significantly over the years, though isolated incidents still require strict handling. He added that his office regularly intervenes whenever issues concerning the Northeast arise, ensuring timely coordination with law enforcement agencies.
The incident took place last week in Malviya Nagar, where the three women were allegedly subjected to racial slurs and derogatory remarks by their neighbours during a dispute related to repair work at their rented accommodation. The confrontation was recorded on video and widely shared online, prompting public condemnation and calls for accountability.
Earlier on Wednesday, Delhi Police arrested the accused couple, Ruby Jain and Harsh. They were produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody for fourteen days, until March 11. Police have registered the case under multiple sections, including criminal intimidation, insulting the modesty of women, promoting enmity between groups, and provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Prevention of Atrocities Act.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, and reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and equal treatment of all citizens, regardless of their region or background.
