Oct 21, 2023

hindustantimes.com

By Devyani Srivastava

The Police Complaints Authorities are overwhelmed, overworked, and relegated to making recommendations. Let's look at the data analysed for the first time

Worldwide, a common strategy for promoting police accountability and strengthening public trust in law enforcement is the creation of external police oversight bodies. In India, too, such a body exists in the form of Police Complaints Authorities (PCAs).

Even with their limited mandate, the Police Complaints Authorities are struggling to cope with the caseload. (REPRESENTATIVE PIC)PREMIUM Even with their limited mandate, the Police Complaints Authorities are struggling to cope with the caseload. (REPRESENTATIVE PIC) In 2006, the Supreme Court directed all states and Union territories to establish PCAs, one at the state level and one each in every district. Headed by retired judges, and consisting of independent members, state-level PCAs are responsible for inquiring into public complaints alleging serious police misconduct including incidents involving death, grievous hurt, and rape in police custody. In addition, district PCAs also look into complaints of extortion, land grabbing or any other misconduct specified by states. Seventeen years on, PCAs' reach and impact remain limited. Read More