In a major directive aimed at safeguarding the dignity and privacy of sexual assault survivors, Rajasthan Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Sharma has ordered that photographs related to rape cases must not be kept in public case files. Such photographs shall be produced only in sealed envelopes before courts or other authorized authorities.
The direction was issued during a statewide law-and-order review meeting held on Monday, attended online by Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Range Inspectors General (IGs). The DGP expressed concern that photographs and other sensitive material in rape cases, including obscene photos and videos, are often placed openly in case files as evidence. He noted that since case files pass through multiple levels—from police stations to headquarters and courts—it is essential to ensure the victim’s privacy and dignity are protected at every stage.
The DGP also warned that if a history-sheeter commits another crime within a district, accountability will rest with the Superintendent of Police concerned. He clarified that responsibility in such cases will be fixed at the SP level rather than on the Station House Officer (SHO) alone.
Emphasizing a tough stance against organized crime, Sharma directed police officers to take stringent action against drug traffickers and gangsters under the new criminal laws and to initiate proceedings against their illegally acquired properties. He also expressed dissatisfaction over inadequate staffing at cyber police stations and instructed officials to address the issue promptly.
Further, the DGP directed strict enforcement against traffic-rule violators and announced that a year-long public awareness campaign would be conducted across the state to promote legal awareness and compliance.
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