Why is there a sexual violence problem in India?
Is it because there aren’t enough police to protect the citizens or is it because of the sluggish court system?
In recent days, Indian politicians have put forward potential remedies for India’s sexual violence problem. Sadly, violence in India is widespread and has deep roots. Moreover, people don’t know the law that needs to be followed.
Knowing the times we are in, I am giving you an overview of how to report against sexual violence that every one must be aware of.
1. File an FIR against sexual violence in any police station.
Anyone can file an FIR.
2. The victim’s friend, colleague, family or a witness can file on behalf of the survivor.
The FIR will be then transferred to the station it concerns. But whether he/she decides to do so or not, is ultimately their choice.
3. The complaint can be registered over phone or e-mail also.
Later to complete the process one has to visit a police station.
4. But if the victim is physically or mentally disabled, the police officer has to go to a place convenient for the victim to register the FIR.
The FIR can be filed either in writing or verbally.
5. The officer preparing the report needs to make a written copy.
The more detailed and explicit the information will be, the better.
6. After the report is prepared, the officer should read it back.
And he/she can verify if it has been noted down exactly exactly as it was narrated.
7. The victim should receive a copy which will contain an FIR number in 24 hours.
That acts as a reference for all future follow-ups and the process of filing is done.
8. The police cannot refuse to file an FIR.
If they refuse, the case can be taken forward to a higher authority (SP or DCP). If they refuse then to a magistrate. (District Magistrate or Chief Judicial Magistrate.)
9. The Investigating Officer will then produce the victim in front of a magistrate and record their statement.
If the police believes the evidence is enough for the suspect to be prosecuted, a charge sheet will be filed.
10. Although the victim is entitled to a court-appointed lawyer, he/she can take their own lawyer to help them get through the next steps in the court.
Never act smart and file a false FIR or give wrong information to the police. You can be punished for misleading them.
Don’t be scared of anyone no matter how powerful they are.
Raise your voice, fight for your rights. 🙂