Uttar Pradesh DGP Refutes 'Trigger-Happy' Allegations Amid Controversial Encounter

Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar dismissed allegations that the state police are 'trigger-happy.' His statement follows the contentious encounter of Mangesh Yadav, accused in a Rs 1.5-crore jewellery heist. Former CM Akhilesh Yadav claimed the BJP targets individuals based on caste and religion through staged encounters.

Uttar Pradesh's Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar refuted allegations on Thursday that the state police are 'trigger-happy' and asserted that the force adheres to stringent guidelines. Kumar emphasized that the police have not faced any criticism from constitutional bodies.

Kumar made these remarks following the controversial encounter of Mangesh Yadav, who was accused in a Rs 1.5-crore jewellery heist in Sultanpur district. This incident has led to former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav accusing the BJP of orchestrating fake encounters to target individuals based on caste and religion.

Kumar defended the police's actions, stating that officers only engage in encounters when fired upon by criminals. He assured that all operations are conducted according to Supreme Court directives, noting that no constitutional body has raised concerns about the force's conduct.

(With inputs from agencies.)