Trauma During Investigation

“Hello there! I’m here to provide you with a bit of information on navigating trauma during the process of investigation. I would like to remind you that suggestions on this post should not be taken as medical advice, legal advice, therapy, etc. or as a one-size-fits-all approach.  Keep in mind that every individual’s journey of  experiencing and navigating through stress or trauma is distinctive because you are one of a kind and no person is truly like you!  Experiencing abuse in any form is NOT OKAY, but what you are experiencing as a result of abuse is valid.  Please know that healing is not a formula and is not for anyone else to define for you. You do you, and you follow all that you need to follow, to help yourself. If you need additional resources or just someone to talk to, feel free to reach out to Imaara Foundation."

What happens after you file an FIR?

After filing a sexual violence case and registering an FIR, the complainant / informant is likely to be called to the police station for further statements, and potentially identification of people, or for clarifications.

What does the investigation process comprise of?

1. The investigation comprises gathering evidence. Any evidence that can place the survivor, witnesses and perpetrators at the time and place of the crime is crucial to the case, and is collected.

2. Further, the crime scene is surveyed for any forensic or material evidence supporting the survivor’s account.

3. A medical investigation of the survivor is also conducted, where all signs indicating sexual violence are documented; however, care is taken to understand that the absence of signs does not automatically mean that sexual violence did not occur.

4. The clothes, jewellery if any, and other relevant possessions on the person of the survivor at the time of the sexual violence is collected.

5. If there is a digital footprint such as chats / texts / images that record the crime, this will also be collected.

6. Images of injuries as documented through photography will also be gathered.

7. All this while, the survivor is to be given access to medical help and psychiatric support.

What is a Panchnama?

All material collected are listed in a document called the panchnama, which records all evidence collected. The panchnama is a witness testimony. This must be signed by two people whom the survivor trusts.

What can you expect from officials during the investigation process?

1. The police do owe you information on your case and you do have the right to ask the questions you need to find out what they’ve done at this point.

2. At this stage, when you’re going through the rigors of the system, you may find yourself being asked to identify the accused, or to hear the accused’s name, or even be informed of the accused’s whereabouts and conduct. This can be triggering, and potentially even bring back painful memories.

What are some ways you can handle trauma during investigation?

1. During your conversations with the police and lawyers, it may be a good idea to rely on a friend, family member, trusted care worker, or therapist, to accompany you on these visits or to be present during these exchanges.

2. It would also help to establish a safe space for yourself to unpack the triggers after your conversations, and to engage in activities that bring you calm and strength.