The additional director-general (ADG) of police in Madhya Pradesh was caught on camera assaulting his wife after she apparently caught him in their apartment with another woman.

The video, which shows the man attacking his wife in the presence of their staff and dog, went viral soon after it surfaced online. Taking immediate action against the officer, identified as Purushottam Sharma, the Madhya Pradesh government suspended him and relieved him of his duties. Speaking to a news agency, Sharma justified his actions and claimed that his wife stalks him and puts cameras in the house. He further implied that the fact that he spent money on her during the 32 years of their marriage gave him the right to treat her the way he did. "We've been married for 32 years, in 2008 she had complained against me. But the point is, since 2008 she has been living in my house, enjoying all facilities & travelling abroad on my expenses. If my nature is abusive then she should've complained earlier. This is a family dispute, not a crime. I am neither a violent person nor a criminal. It is unfortunate that I have to go through this. My wife stalks me & has put cameras in the house. My son should say why was she taking money (from me) since 1215 years and going on foreign trips. After enjoying so much comfort in life, she has an obligation towards her family, to save its reputation," the officer reportedly said.

Following the officer's suspension, the chief minister of MP stated, "The officer has been relieved of his duties. Action will be taken against anyone who holds a responsible position, but indulges in illegal activities and taking law into his hands."

Purshottam Sharma, Special DG, MP brutally assaults his wife??
It seems domestic violence rises with education & status in India!!!pic.twitter.com/yx9US5n7dB

— Seema Choudhary (@Seems3r) September 28, 2020