Three women from Arunachal Pradesh, currently residing in Delhi, have alleged that they were subjected to racial slurs and humiliating remarks by their neighbours following a dispute at their rented accommodation in south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar.
According to police, the altercation began over minor repair work being carried out at the women’s fourth-floor flat. During drilling and electrical installation around 3.30 pm on February 20, dust and small debris reportedly fell onto the floor below, prompting objections from residents Harsh Singh and his wife.
The women have alleged that instead of resolving the issue amicably, the couple resorted to racial abuse and sexist comments. News agency Press Trust of India (PTI) reported that the accused allegedly made derogatory remarks and questioned the character of one of the women.
Videos of the confrontation have since circulated widely on social media. In one clip, Singh’s wife is allegedly heard asking whether the women had opened a “massage parlour” at home and implying involvement in sex work. In response, one of the women can be heard objecting to the remarks, saying the accusations had damaged her image and were baseless. She also challenged the couple to check her room for any evidence of alcohol consumption after being accused of drinking.
The women have sought a formal apology, stating that the remarks were not only offensive to them personally but also targeted the broader northeastern community.
An FIR has been registered against Singh and his wife at Malviya Nagar Police Station under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections related to insulting the modesty of a woman, criminal intimidation, common intention and promoting enmity between groups on grounds such as race and place of birth.
In their complaint, the women alleged mental harassment and humiliation. Police officials have clarified that no physical injuries were reported in the incident, and further investigation is underway.
