Report No. 243

Shri Mangesh Kashyap, DCP (HQ), Delhi:

Section 498(A) of IPC is certainly needed in its unadulterated form. Some procedural improvements could be made before registering FIR. In order to ensure that the facts are not exaggerated, the aggrieved woman should be asked to write an application after few sessions of interactions with a Counsellor. In case the complaint is found exaggerated benefit of doubt should be given.

All possible efforts should be made through counselling and mediation to keep the woman and her children in the matrimonial home. Make it non-bailable. Case registered under 498-A should be investigated by officer in the rank of Sub Inspector or above. They should be supervised regularly by an ACP once in a fortnight and DCP / ADCP once in a month.