How Can I help the police?

After filing the complaint, provide a clear, honest, and detailed account of what happened — including the date, time, location, and identities (if known) of those involved. This statement may be officially recorded under Section 161 of the CrPC by the police, or under Section 164 before a magistrate. Consistency in your version of events helps build a strong case. 

Keep all possible evidence safe — including medical records, clothes worn during the incident, photographs, chat messages, call logs, or CCTV footage. These should be handed over to the police as soon as possible. If there were any witnesses present, inform the investigating officer so they can also be questioned and provide statements. 

If not already done, a medical examination can be arranged by the police or hospital. This can be crucial for collecting forensic evidence like DNA, injury marks, or internal damage. The survivor must give consent, and a trusted person may accompany them for support during the process. 

If the accused is unknown and the police arrange a line-up or show suspects, help identify the correct person. If the accused is already known, share their name, contact information, workplace, or address — anything that can help the police conduct their investigation more thoroughly.

Respond promptly to follow-up calls, attend appointments with investigating officers, and share any additional information when asked. Timely cooperation helps ensure the investigation doesn’t get delayed and the evidence remains fresh and reliable. 

Ask for the name, phone number, and designation of the officer handling your case. Staying in contact allows you to track progress, provide new updates, and ensure that the case remains active. If necessary, you can escalate concerns to senior officers using documented communication. 

Do not attempt to collect evidence on your own once the case has been filed — always submit it directly to the police. Avoid leaking case details to the media or posting on social media, as it could affect the investigation. If you feel the police are biased or ignoring parts of your statement, document everything — it can be raised in court or with a magistrate. 

Assist by pointing police to locations where evidence might be found — such as where the incident occurred or where items were discarded. Equally important, offer emotional support to the survivor so they feel heard, safe, and empowered to engage with the legal process confidently.