Farmers Protest: The policemen in the images were from one part of Delhi, according to sources.
After photos emerged yesterday of policemen armed with metal lances and arm guards, apparently to ward against swords seen during farmer protests, the Delhi Police have put out a disclaimer and have also asked those behind the images to explain.
"Such metal lathis have never been part of police weapons," said Delhi Police Commission SN Shrivastava.
The policemen in the images were from one part of Delhi and they took the initiative on their own, the Delhi Police said today, denying any formal orders to incorporate new metal armoury. The unit, which is from Shahdara in east Delhi, has been asked for an explanation, according to sources.
"The images were from Shahdara district. A local officer asked for these metal lathis without seeking approval from any senior officers," said a Delhi Police spokesman.
"As soon as senior officers found out, these were taken back. There is no scheme to provide policemen with steel lathis."
Last week, a cop was injured by a sword during a fight at the Singhu border between protesting farmers and a group that had barged into their tent and attacked them. The group vandalized tents put up by farmers protesting since November-end against three central farm laws.
A protester armed with a sword was seen attacking the group, and police officer Pradeep Paliwal, who tried to break up the fight, was "grievously injured", according to Delhi Police. Visuals showed the police taking away the blood-stained weapon.
Swords were also seen last Tuesday, when the farmers' Republic Day tractor rally descended into chaos as protesters clashed with cops at various points in Delhi and stormed the historic Red Fort.
A photo shared by sources yesterday showed cops lined up, equipped with what appeared to be metal guards covering their forearm and holding metal lances with a wide 'guard' around the grip to shield the wrists when swinging at an opponent.
Hours after NDTV's report on the photo, the Delhi police clarified that there was no formal order to equip their forces with these weapons.