Farmer allegedly slapped by SI over water dispute in Telangana

A farmer from Giripally was allegedly slapped by Gajwel SI Malla Reddy after approaching the police over a water-sharing dispute with his cousins. A video showing the injured farmer went viral. Police said an inquiry was underway and action would follow if the SI was found guilty.

Siddipet: A Sub-Inspector of Police allegedly assaulted a farmer who approached the Gajwel police seeking help over the sharing of water with his cousins at his agricultural field.

The farmer, Bhimiri Ravi of Giripally, approached the Gajwel police on Friday evening seeking help in sharing water from a borewell pumpset owned by three cousins. During the inquiry, SI Malla Reddy asked him how many hours of power supply they were getting.

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When Ravi replied that he was not sure, Malla Reddy allegedly slapped him on his left cheek. Ravi sustained a bleeding injury just below his right eye. A video showing him bleeding went viral on social media.

The SI allegedly kept the farmer in custody instead of taking him to the hospital immediately. He was finally released after the intervention of village elders. The incident came to light on Saturday morning.

When asked about the incident, Gajwel ACP K Narsimhulu said that an inquiry was underway. He added that action would be initiated against the SI if he was found guilty.