A horrifying crime unfolded in Delhi’s southeast Govindpuri area when a 28-year-old Delhi Police constable was stabbed to death during a routine night patrol. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, November 22, 2024, has sent shockwaves across the city, highlighting growing concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel.

Constable killed during routine patrol

The constable, identified as Kiran Pal, was conducting a motorcycle patrol in Govindpuri when he noticed three individuals behaving suspiciously near Lane 13. Acting on his training, Pal stopped the men for questioning. However, what started as a routine inspection turned fatal when the suspects, in an attempt to evade capture, resorted to violence.

Witness accounts and official reports indicate that the suspects initially threw stones at the officer before Pal bravely intercepted their scooter by seizing its keys. In retaliation, one of the men, later identified as Rocky alias Raghav, pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed the constable multiple times in the chest and abdomen. Despite being rushed to Majidia Hospital, Kiran Pal succumbed to his injuries.

Police swiftly act to capture suspects

Determined to bring the perpetrators to justice, the Delhi Police launched an intensive manhunt. On Saturday, November 23, 2024, two of the three suspects were apprehended. Crime Branch officials detained Deepak Max, aged 20, following a dramatic encounter near the DDA flats. During the altercation, Deepak sustained a gunshot wound to his leg after allegedly firing at the officers.

In a parallel operation, local police arrested 18-year-old Krish Gupta from the same locality. Meanwhile, Rocky alias Raghav, the prime suspect who inflicted the fatal injuries, evaded capture initially but was later killed in an encounter with law enforcement officers.

A dedicated officer’s tragic end

Kiran Pal, hailing from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, joined the Delhi Police in 2018. Described by colleagues as dedicated and fearless, he had recently been posted to Govindpuri in March 2024 after serving at Kishan Garh Police Station. His untimely death leaves behind a grieving family, including his mother, elder brother, and sister-in-law.

This tragic incident is the latest in a series of attacks on Delhi Police officers this year. Earlier, in January, Assistant Sub-Inspector Shambhu Dayal was stabbed while apprehending a thief in west Delhi, and in September, Constable Sandeep lost his life in Nangloi while attempting to prevent public drinking.

Authorities vow justice and reform

Following the incident, senior officials have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the lives of police personnel and enhancing law enforcement measures in high-risk areas. Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting with Delhi Police leadership to review safety protocols and discuss additional support for patrolling officers.

While the arrests and swift actions by law enforcement have provided some solace, the incident has reignited debates around systemic changes needed to ensure the safety of police personnel on duty. Experts have stressed the importance of equipping officers with advanced tools and support systems, including body cameras and real-time communication technology, to respond effectively to volatile situations.

A call for public cooperation

As the investigation continues, authorities have urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activities. The Delhi Police emphasized that a collaborative approach between the public and law enforcement is essential in fostering a secure environment.

This incident stands as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers daily. Kiran Pal’s bravery and sacrifice are a testament to his dedication to duty, and his loss will be mourned not just by his family but by the wider community.

  Crime in Delhi, Delhi Police, Govindpuri, Kiran Pal