04 October,2023 09:12 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirish Vaktania
Screengrab from the video
A street performer widely recognised as 'Gold Man' was manhandled by a police constable from Bandra while he was showcasing his art outside SRK's residence at Bandstand on Monday night.
The locals recorded the entire incident and intervened to protect 'Gold Man' from the constable's aggressive actions. The Mumbai police commissioner initiated an inquiry into the matter and instructed an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) to conduct an investigation.
The artist, Girjesh Goud, popularly known as 'The Living Statue' or 'Gold Man,' was manhandled by the constable during his static performance on Monday night.
Goud also alleged that the constable was under the influence of alcohol. However, police sources informed mid-day that Goud was asked to leave the area, but he refused, resulting in a confrontation.
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According to a police official, Goud was at Bandstand, performing his standstill act. He had set up a bag and a box with a sign indicating a need for assistance from supporters and admirers. Visitors would take photos with him and contribute money to Goud in return.
On Monday night, Goud was adorned in his Gold jacket, cap, and shoes, standing outside SRK's residence at Bandstand. A constable arrived at the scene and instructed Goud to leave.
A video of the incident went viral on social media. In the video, the constable was seen wielding a baton, instructing Goud to vacate the premises. Goud refused and explained to the constable that he was not causing any disturbances. The situation escalated when the constable raised the baton, and Goud firmly held onto it, preventing the constable from striking him.
The alleged video also showed locals gathering at the spot and urging the constable not to assault Goud, stating that he was a performing artist. Later, the constable grabbed Goud by his collar, prompting onlookers to intervene and prevent the constable from taking him to the police station.
Goud posted the video on his Instagram and Facebook accounts, where he has millions of followers. He recounted the incident, stating, "I tried to restrain the Constable and asked him why he was attacking me, but he persisted. He then held my neck, restricting my breathing. I pleaded with him several times to release me, but he didn't relent. The Constable also threatened to take me to the police station and file a case against me. I'm an artist, with no one but my Instagram (fans) family. I implore all of you to share this video as widely as possible."
Goud also mentioned that his mobile phone was damaged during this incident. On his fan page, Goud appealed for support from his fan community to attain justice.
Additional CP Paramjit Singh Dahiya spoke to midday, stating, "We have conducted an inquiry into this matter, with the investigation led by the ACP. We will gather statements from both the Constable and Goldman, who are featured in the viral video, and subsequently take appropriate action in this case."
