Delhi PWD Minister Parvesh Verma Slapped Man During Road Inspection, AAP Protests

NEW DELHI — On 26 September 2026, Delhi’s Public Works Department minister Parvesh Verma was filmed slapping a man who was recording a road inspection in Tilak Nagar. The incident, captured on a smartphone and shared widely on social media, prompted a complaint against the minister and protests from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Incident and Immediate Reaction

The confrontation occurred during a routine inspection of a road in the Tilak Nagar neighbourhood. According to a video released by NDTV, Verma, who also serves as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister, became agitated when a citizen began filming the inspection. The minister struck the individual with a closed fist, a move that was recorded and posted on several platforms within minutes.

The man, who identified himself as a local resident, later filed a complaint with the Delhi Police. The Times of India reports that the complaint was lodged at the Tilak Nagar police station and cited “threats of violence” made by the minister. The police registered an FIR under Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code for assault and intimidation.

AAP’s Response and Public Outcry

Following the video’s circulation, AAP leaders in Delhi called for a formal inquiry into the minister’s conduct. The party’s spokesperson said that the incident “violates basic norms of public behaviour and reflects poorly on the government’s image.” AAP organized a protest march from the Delhi Legislative Assembly to the PWD office on 27 September, demanding that Verma be held accountable.

Parvesh Verma’s office issued a brief statement, noting that the minister was “unaware of the filming” and that the incident was a “misunderstanding.” No formal disciplinary action has been announced by the Delhi government as of the date of this report.

Legal and Procedural Context

Under the Delhi Police Act, any public servant who physically assaults a citizen can be charged with assault and intimidation. The FIR filed by the complainant is the first step in a potential criminal proceeding. The Delhi Police has not yet announced whether a police officer will be assigned to investigate the matter.

Parvesh Verma, who has been a prominent figure in Delhi politics since 2015, has previously faced criticism over road maintenance projects. The current incident adds to a series of controversies that have drawn attention to the PWD department’s oversight practices.

Broader Implications for Governance

The incident has highlighted tensions between government officials and citizens during public works inspections. AAP’s protests underscore the party’s broader critique of the ruling party’s handling of public safety and transparency. The Delhi government has yet to issue a formal statement on the complaint or the protest.

What’s Next?

Law enforcement is expected to conduct a preliminary inquiry into the complaint. The Delhi Legislative Assembly may also consider a motion to examine the minister’s conduct. Until a formal investigation concludes, the incident remains a point of contention between the government and opposition parties.