KOCHI: The High Court has called for a comprehensive protocol (code of conduct) to provide psychological support, medical and legal assistance to abused women and children. The court also gave 10 directions for this. Justice Devan Ramachandran issued the directions while considering a petition filed by a victim alleging that the police are forcing her to settle a sexual abuse case.

Directions

1. Government should publicize the toll-free number 112 for victims to seek emergency help.

2. Victims must be encouraged to call 112 or police control room number 100, '; and on such intimation being received, the information will be brought to the notice of police station

3. Trained personnel should be assigned to handle calls made by victims.

4. On coming to know about the harassment, the police should take immediate action to contact the victim either personally or through the phone without summoning the victim to the station.

5. The statement of the victim must be recorded at his/her residence or in the place of his/her choice. The statement should be recorded in the presence of the victim's parents/ guardian/social worker

6. If the case is registered, a Victim Liaison Officer should be tasked with providing protection and support to the victim

7. The numbers of the One Stop Crisis Centre and the Victim Rights Centre, which ensure treatment, counselling and legal assistance to the victim, should be provided.

8. These centres should be available to the victim 24 hours so that he/she can seek help at any time. Police should make sure the victim is in contact with these centres.

9. One Stop Crisis Centers and Victim Rights Centres should offer psychological care as well as legal aid to the victim. This will encourage her to return to normal life. This should continue till trial.

10. The victim should be given assistance in giving a confidential statement. Victims should be educated about their rights and empowered to take action with confidence.