New Delhi: A Parliamentary committee, which probed the assault on Devendra Prasad Yadav, Janata Dal-United (JD-U) MP allegedly by Delhi police while leading a farmers' rally in New Delhi on December 9 has recommended suspension of Manoj Lal, deputy commissioner of police (DCP), New Delhi.

The committee, headed by V K Malhotra, felt there was prima facie case for holding a detailed inquiry into the matter including examination of relevant material and viewing of video cassettes and recording evidence of concerned police officers who were on duty at the time of the incident.

Presenting the preliminary report in the Lok Sabha on December 12, Malhotra said the committee recommended that in order to ensure transparent and impartial inquiry into the matter, Lal be placed under suspension till the inquiry was completed by it.

Malhotra said this recommendation should not be construed to mean that Lal has been found guilty.

The committee was set up after members strongly condemned the police action and demanded that those responsible be punished. Yadav has since been attending Lok Sabha with bandages on his hands and leg.

Yadav was leading the rally of farmers who demanded a permanent solution to the perennial flood and drought problems in Bihar.

Malhotra said a factual note on the matter had been sought from the Home Ministry, which would be considered before taking any further step in the matter.

PTI