The women’s groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Goa have put forward for early implementation a standard protocol to be followed by police while handling cases of women.
The protocol has been put forward to police following growing concerns that women victims were unwilling to approach police stations with their grievances for variety of reasons.
In case of sexual violence, the protocol demands registration of FIR immediately. It warns police to desist from making any comments or asking unnecessary questions. Sufficient staff should also be available to cut-out delay in procedures. Medical examinations should take place as soon as possible.
As regards to complaints of sexual violence made by a woman victim, the protocol demands that the police station must make available a copy of the medical report to the victim along with the FIR.
It insists that counselling support should be provided to the victim to prepare her for various procedures to be followed after filing the complaint.
While an NGO is called for recording statement, the follow-up by the NGOs in these matters is thwarted. The victims should be referred to counsellors/supporting organisations.
Ms. Sabina Martins of Bailanchao Saad told The Hindu on Thursday that they had meetings with senior police officials recently over women’s complaints, where they have submitted a list of general protocol in regard to complaints of women and specific protocol to be followed as regards complaints of trafficking, domestic violence, begging , kidnapping ,etc., apart from complaints of sex violence.
