Accessing Senior Police Officials for Escalated Cases of Violence in India

“Hello there! I’m here to provide you with a bit of information on how survivors can access senior police officials, highlighting their roles, differences, and approaches to handling escalated cases of violence. Experiencing abuse in any form is NOT OKAY, but what you are experiencing as a result of abuse is valid. What you, as a bystander, are going through while supporting a survivor is absolutely okay and typical too!  If you need additional resources or just someone to talk to, feel free to reach out to Imaara Foundation."

In India, survivors of violence may face challenges when their initial complaints are not adequately addressed by lower-ranking police officials. Senior police officials, such as Superintendents of Police (SPs), Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs), and higher-ranking officers, play crucial roles in overseeing law enforcement and ensuring that cases of violence are handled appropriately.

Why do you need to escalate cases to senior police officials?

Police officials at the grassroots level, such as constables and sub-inspectors, are often the first point of contact for survivors of violence. However, studies show that complaints, especially those related to gender-based violence, may be dismissed, delayed, or inadequately handled at these levels, leading to re-traumatization and systemic failures (Jassal, 2023). Escalating cases to senior police officials can help address these issues, ensuring that survivors' complaints are given the attention they deserve and that justice is pursued effectively.

Can I directly approach senior officials at police stations or headquarters?

Can I file written complaints and access online portals?

Can I access public grievance redressal systems and helplines?

Can I approach Human Rights Commissions and Women’s Commissions?

How do senior police officials address escalated cases differently?

Want the references for this article?

Jassal, N. (2023). Does victim gender matter for justice delivery? Police and judicial responses to women’s cases in India. American Political Science Review. https://typeset.io/papers/does-victim-gender-matter-for-justice-delivery-police-and-n0b5znanxn

Accessing senior police officials can be a critical step for survivors when lower-ranking officers fail to take appropriate action. By utilizing direct approaches, online complaint mechanisms, public grievance systems, and human rights bodies, survivors can ensure that their voices are heard at the highest levels of law enforcement. Senior police officials play an essential role in maintaining accountability within the police force and ensuring that all complaints of violence are handled with the seriousness they deserve.