What can I do if police use excessive force?

File complaint with senior police officer (SP/DCP), file complaint at NHRC, file FIR against police officer, and approach High Court.

If police use excessive force, you have multiple remedies. First, file a written complaint with the senior police officer such as the SP or DCP of the area. Second, file a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) online at nhrc.nic.in or call their helpline at 1800-345-4000. Third, file an FIR against the concerned police officers at another police station. Fourth, approach the High Court with a writ petition seeking compensation and action against the officers. Document everything — take photographs of injuries, get medical reports, and collect witness statements. Courts have awarded substantial compensation in cases of police brutality.

• Article 21 — Right to life and personal liberty
• BNS Sections 115-117 — Voluntarily causing hurt by public servant
• Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993