Part III Team conducted a session on the essential, basic, and specific practical details about FIR (First Information Report) and an overview of the criminal justice system in which it operates. The session involved discussions on the difference between cognizable and non-cognizable offences, how to file a complaint and what to do if it is refused. This was followed by a discussion on the issues/challenges that the community faces on a day-to-day basis with the police.
We began the session with an ice-breaking exercise, where both participants and facilitators introduced themselves. The participants were highly receptive, curious, and eager to engage. Each of them had valuable experiences and opinions to share, particularly regarding the registration and non-registration of FIRs, the attitude of the police, and how social structures have limited their access to resources.
One major issue that dominated the discussion was the growing hostile environment for girls near the Gaddhe wali school. Troublesome boys would wait outside the school to harass and tease the female students. The severity of their misbehaviour was such that even the school staff felt scared to confront them. In one instance, a teacher who tried to drive them away was severely beaten by these boys. Some concerned members of the community reported the situation to the police, leading to the placement of a police van near the school. However, the participants revealed that the police officers stationed there were also afraid to take action against the boys.