A last resort for victims of misconduct and injustice

Independent body investigates allegations of abuse; recommends action against errant officers to the state government

- Megha Kuchik

For many crime victims seeking justice, their initial step involves visiting a police station. However, the process often becomes frustrating when police officers refuse to take their complaints seriously or fail to register cases.

In such situations, the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) offers a ray of hope. This independent body listens to grievances, investigates allegations and recommends action against errant officers to the state government, ensuring accountability and justice for victims.

The PCA addresses a range of serious complaints against police personnel such as shoddy investigations, refusal to file FIRs, custodial torture and abuse of authority. The body also hears cases related to custodial deaths, serious harm caused by police, rape or attempted rape by personnel, unjust detention, corruption, extortion, land or house grabbing and abuse of authority.