In a shocking incident in Mathura, a journalist, Veer Narayan Sharma, faced humiliation and assault by local gangster Bhura Pehalwan after publishing an article against him. The incident, which occurred near the Goverdhan Bypass on Tuesday, was captured on video and quickly spread on social media. The footage shows Bhura repeatedly slapping Sharma, hurling abuses, and even forcing him to touch his feet as bystanders watched, paralyzed by the gangster’s notorious influence.

Reports indicate that the assault was prompted by Sharma’s earlier news report, which exposed Bhura’s criminal activities. Bhura, who has multiple charges against him, including an assault on a police officer and a case under the Gunda Act, was angered by the journalist’s coverage. Witnesses claim the gangster went as far as to demand that Sharma rub his nose on the ground in submission.

Watch how India News Reporter Veer Narayan Sharma is slapped, and forced to touch the feets by a gangster in Mathura. Veer Narayan Sharma told us that the accused is booked under more than six cases including a case of the Gunda Act. The accused had also forced him to rub his… pic.twitter.com/dO2UYTNQjP

— Shubham Sharma (@Shubham_fd) November 15, 2024

Despite Sharma filing an official complaint after the attack, the incident has raised serious concerns about police leniency. Initially, Govardhan Police Station chief Vinod Babu Mishra reportedly attempted to downplay the assault, only acting after mounting pressure from journalists and public outcry. Bhura was eventually arrested using mobile location tracking; however, the charges were minor, leading to his swift release on bail.

The incident has not only highlighted the challenges faced by journalists in Uttar Pradesh but also brought attention to alleged ties between Bhura Pehalwan and local police. Social media is abuzz with demands for strict action, as many question the authorities’ commitment to safeguarding press freedom and the safety of journalists.