Of 63 rape cases in December, 10 false

In December last year alone, the Punjab Police had registered 63 cases of rape. However, out of these, 10 have turned to be false. As a result, the state police has asked its field officers to register rape cases and arrest the accused but at the same time, also guard against registration of false complaints.

"While it is imperative to ensure prompt registration of cases of sexual assault and violence and expeditious and vigorous investigation, at the same time, it is incumbent on the district police chiefs to ensure that innocent persons are not booked or harassed merely on the basis of false allegations," Additional Director General of Police (Crime) Jasminder Singh told mediapersons on Wednesday.

During the past fortnight, 10 such false cases have been reported from different parts of the state. "We have already issued instructions that police should be very sensitive about gender-related cases and SSPs should personally monitor such cases. The SHO should personally inform his senior officers about such complaints. The police will abide by the law. Also, action under Section 182 of CrPC will be taken against those who register false complaints,'' said Singh.

He added: "There is a general outcry against cases of sexual assault on women and children. In view of this, police commissioners and SSPs are advised to ensure fair, transparent and expeditious investigations in all such cases in the interest of justice. A SP level officer in the district will take final call in these cases."

Refusal to marry main reason

Majitha: The complainant got married and approached the high court for protection, as her family was against the union. She suspected her husband of having an illicit affair with his aunt and filed a false complaint of rape against her him.

Fazilka: The complainant got married in a temple against her father's wishes. Later, the father got her to register a false case against her husband, his brother's wife and another person.

... contd.

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