Delhi Police chief asks investigators to prioritise evidence that holds up in court

Delhi Police commissioner Anurag Kumar has told investigators that an arrest alone is not enough: evidence must clearly establish each person’s alleged role and the charges against them.

During a fortnightly crime review meeting, Kumar directed officers to prioritise evidence that can withstand scrutiny in court, officers said. He also asked station house officers and assistant commissioners of police to scrutinise charge sheets before they are sent to the prosecution branch or filed in court.

Investigators have been asked to verify and record permanent addresses, bank accounts, PAN and Aadhaar details, and mobile numbers of arrested people and witnesses. Officers said the measure is intended to help trace people during investigations and trials, particularly when they live in rented or temporary accommodation.

Kumar also called for crime-data analysis, hotspot mapping and reviews of emerging trends. Joint commissioners across Delhi’s six police ranges must prepare reports on every murder case in their areas, examining motive and modus operandi.

All police districts have also been asked to create a database of school-dropout juveniles to identify and monitor vulnerable children.