Two-day charge sheets have curbed crime: GRP

According to the railway police, crime in the first quarter has already dipped after the drive was initiated in January this year

Criminals targeting train commuters will now end up behind bars for longer period, with the Government Railway Police (GRP) filing charge sheets in two days in most cases. The two-day charge sheet programme was launched by the GRP following instructions from state police chief Pravin Dixit. According to the railway police’s claims, crime in the first quarter has already dipped after the drive was initiated in January this year.

Railway police guard Churchgate station (Hindustan Times)

The charge sheets are filed in two days mainly in cases in which the accused is caught while committing the offence. GRP officials have been asked to focus on crimes such molestation, theft and causing hurt using weapon or other means, as the probability of the accused getting caught is higher in these crimes, said GRP commissioner Madhukar Pandey.

“Crimes are in control according to the statistics we have collated and it is helping us conduct more effective patrolling as the accused, mostly seasoned criminals, are lodged in prison for longer. The charge sheet is filed promptly, it paves the way for quicker disposal of cases too,” said Pandey.

Explaining the benefits of filing prompt charge sheets, officials said ideally, a criminal apprehended in such crimes is sent to police custody for two to three days. While the police continue the process of filing a case and getting the case papers in place keeping in mind the 90-day period to file a charge sheet, the court releases the accused on bail.By the time the charge sheet is filed and the court takes up the case for hearing substantial time passes and on some occasions, the accused disappears or the complainant or witnesses retreat.

“Now, with the charges being filed before the accused is considered for bail, the court acknowledges the seriousness of the crime. As charges are filed early, the hearing starts early and the conviction is guaranteed with the evidence and witness statements being put up afresh before the court,” added Pandey. The GRP’s conviction rate has risen to 85 per cent in 2016 from 80 per cent last year.

With inputs from Pratik Salunke