Rawalpindi: An Indian photographer, covering the Indo-Pak Test in Rawalpindi, was slapped and kicked by a police constable when he was going to the ground at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, triggering off protest from both Indian and local media today (Apr 13, 2004).

The Kolkata-based lensman was making his way towards the ground during the lunch break, but was stopped by the constable despite having valid accreditation. A heated argument ensued, following which the constable slapped and kicked the photographer, eyewitnesses said.

As the word about the incident spread, mediamen of both countries immediately took up the matter with the officer in-charge of security at the stadium, where the series-deciding match was in progress.

The constable, who had left the venue by then, was summoned by the authorities and made to apologise to the photographer.

"We are looking into the matter. We have heard one side of the story and I will also meet the photographer. I assure you that we will take whatever action is necessary," city superintendent of police told the mediamen.

"The series has been played in a good spirit and one isolated incident should not be blown out of proportion," he added.