US journo leaves for US; seeks $ 5lakh compensation

An American journalist, who claimed that police beat him up after they mistook him for a car-thief three days ago here, left the country early this morning, demanding an inquiry into the incident and $5lakh compensation for his "sufferings".

Police had denied the allegations of Jeol Elliot, working with Delhi-based magazine Caravan and freelancing for publications like New York Times and Global Post, saying the foreign national beat up an elderly driver and two police personnel.

The incident was reported from Jangpura in south-east Delhi on Tuesday at around 3am. Police have booked Elliot for assault, attempted theft and creating nuisance after consuming alcohol. However, Elliot claimed he was framed after he unknowingly walked into an altercation involving police and a commoner.
    
Sources said Elliot left for US in an Emirates flight at around 5am this morning.
    
"I request thorough inquiry into the beating and torture I endured at the hands, feet and batons of Delhi police. I request that the police officers responsible be removed from their positions. Further, I seek $5lakh in compensation for pain and suffering and mental anguish the Delhi police inflicted upon me," Elliot said.
    
Delhi police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat said they have not received any complaint from Elliot.