Legal Basis:
* IPC Section 375-376 (Rape) – Now BNS Section 63-64
* Punishment: Minimum 7 years to Life Imprisonment
* Category: Non-bailable, Cognizable
* Mandatory Forensic: YES
INVESTIGATION CHECKLIST:
STEP 1: RECEIVE COMPLAINT (BNSS Section 173)
* Record FIR immediately – no delay permitted.
* FIR must be registered by woman police officer (preferred).
* Record statement of victim privately.
* Do not allow male officers to question victim alone.
* Record complaint in victim’s own words.
STEP 2: IMMEDIATE VICTIM PROTECTION
* Ensure victim’s safety and privacy.
* Provide medical attention immediately.
* Do not allow victim to wash or change clothes.
* Arrange female police officer to accompany victim.
* Inform family members (with victim’s consent).
STEP 3: MEDICAL EXAMINATION OF VICTIM (BNSS Section 184)
MANDATORY within 24 hours:
* Take victim to hospital immediately.
* Medical examination by female doctor (if available).
* Collect medical samples (swabs, blood, urine, scrapings).
* Medical officer must prepare medico-legal report.
* Obtain medical certificate (Section 184).
STEP 4: EVIDENCE COLLECTION FROM VICTIM
Collect and seal separately:
* Victim’s clothing (inner and outer).
* Bed sheets/mattress (if applicable).
* Any torn clothing pieces.
* Hair samples.
* Photographs of injuries.
STEP 5: CRIME SCENE EXAMINATION (BNSS Section 176)
* Call forensic expert (MANDATORY).
* Video record entire scene.
* Collect bedding/sheets from scene.
* Look for signs of struggle.
* Collect any biological evidence (blood, semen, hair).
* Take photographs from all angles.
* Prepare crime scene sketch.
STEP 6: SUSPECT ARREST & EXAMINATION (BNSS Section 52)
When suspect is identified:
* Arrest immediately.
* Medical examination within 24 hours (MANDATORY).
* Collect biological samples (blood, semen, saliva, swabs, hair) and clothing.
* Take photographs of any scratches/injuries.
* Collect DNA sample (BNSS Section 54).
STEP 7: WITNESS STATEMENTS (BNSS Section 180)
* Record statement of victim (Section 183).
* Record statement before Magistrate if victim requests (Section 183).
* Record statements of witnesses, including the medical officer.
STEP 8: EVIDENCE SUBMISSION
Submit to FSL:
* All clothing and biological samples.
* Medical examination report.
* Photographs and video recording of scene.
* Request DNA testing and serological examination.
STEP 9: INVESTIGATION COMPLETION (BNSS Section 193)
* Complete investigation within 60 days.
* Prepare detailed investigation report.
* Include all evidence with chain of custody.
* Submit chargesheet with all documents.
SPECIAL PROCEDURES FOR RAPE CASES:
* Victim’s Rights: Privacy maintained, no disclosure of identity, no aggressive questioning, free medical aid.
* Evidence Preservation: Dry all wet clothing, seal each item separately, maintain proper chain of custody.
* Time Limits: Investigation completion within 60 days, Trial completion within 2 months (fast-track).
