Victims of domestic violence need not to visit Police Station for lodging FIR: Odisha Police

In compliance with the orders of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) has issued instructions stating that in order to lodge the complaint during lockdown period, victims of domestic violence need not to come to the police station, the police will reach the spot on receipt of the telephone.

In a press note, Odisha Police said that during the lockdown period, many countries and states have seen a rise in domestic violence. The possibility of the same occurring in Odisha cannot be ruled out.

Though so far there is no noticeable increase in reporting of such cases in the State, still there is a need to remain alert regarding the same.

"To lodge the complaint, during the lockdown period, victims of domestic violence need not come to the police station. On receipt of telephone, police will reach the spot/home to collect complaints/FIR and take necessary action. They can also approach police through Odisha Police Citizen Portal and Sahayata Mobile APP," said Odisha Police.

"Helpline telephone number of police station and district control room (total 600 plus telephones) should be given wide publicity so that victims of domestic violence can use the same," police added.

All cases of domestic violence during the lockdown period should be investigated by the officer, not below the rank of S.I. of police.

All Domestic Violence cases during the lockdown period should be supervised by an officer of rank of DSP or above.

Investigation Unit for Crime against Women (IUCAW) of the district should remain extra alert and active during the lockdown period, said Odisha Police in the press note.