Meerut, July 11 -- Two days after a purported video showing him slapping protesters outside the Meerut Collectorate sparked widespread debate on social media, senior superintendent of police (SSP) Avinash Pandey on Friday defended his actions, saying the police had acted in accordance with the law, while urging both his supporters and critics to contribute positively to society. In a video message, Pandey appealed to his supporters to plant at least one tree during the upcoming plantation drive, maintain cleanliness and avoid the use of plastic bags. Addressing his critics, he urged them to plant two trees and channel their anger towards constructive social causes instead of, as he alleged, engaging in caste-based politics or supporting those attempting to disturb law and order. The SSP said the police possessed complete video evidence of the incident and invited anyone wishing to understand the circumstances to meet him personally and examine the facts objectively. He maintained that the action taken against those involved was based on evidence and necessitated by the prevailing circumstances. Warning against attempts to disturb law and order or undermine the dignity of the police uniform, Pandey said strict legal action would be taken against violators. The statement comes after a 30-second purported video went viral on Wednesday, apparently showing the SSP slapping several protesters during a demonstration over a recent woman's murder case outside the Collectorate....