Boys below 18 years should be interrogated in presence of guardians: DGP's circular

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As per the police chief's circular, boys below eighteen years of age should be interrogated in the presence of parents or family members. If they are not available, other qualified persons and child welfare officers should be present.

According to section 160 of the Criminal Procedure Code, a man or woman below 15 years of age or above 65 years of age cannot be ordered to appear anywhere outside their residence. The circular, which describes the responsibilities of the police and the rights of citizens, says that this should also be followed in the case of mentally challenged people.

"Women should not be called to the station for questioning. The notice given to them should indicate where the woman will be interrogated. Interrogation should be done in the presence of family members and women police officers at the place where the woman lives. Procedures for arresting persons, issuing notices etc. should be strictly followed. The pattern of notice and handbill receipt issued by the police has also been modified. Investigators are responsible for the protection of persons summoned to the station. The work of investigating officers should also be on the ground floor of the stations."

"The used booklets provided by the investigating officers to the SHO shall be retained for three years after completion of the investigation and submission of the final report. If there is a case where records are required to be retained beyond the prescribed time limit related to the trial, the permission of the concerned ACP should be obtained. Disciplinary action will be taken if there is any lapse on the part of the investigating officer.", the circular reads.