One of my clients recently had a case which I am explaining below and if you are stuck in such similar situation, here is what to do.

Note: Due to attorney-client privilege, I cannot disclose complete case details or identify the actual parties involved. However, I am sharing the essential facts and legal approach so that if you find yourself in a similar situation, you can understand the available solutions and legal remedies.

Recently, I handled a case involving serious allegations against Mr.X from City A. The matter came to light when several social media posts and memes began circulating, containing screenshots of alleged inappropriate conversations between Mr.X and minor girls aged 13-14 years. Multiple victims came forward with confessions claiming that Mr.X had contacted them online, asked to meet in person, and subsequently molested them during physical meetings. The case involved both online harassment and physical assault allegations, with evidence primarily consisting of chat screenshots, social media posts, and victim testimonies. The matter required immediate legal intervention to ensure proper investigation and protection of the minors involved while also addressing the serious criminal charges.

Advice in Such Cases

Consult with Lawyer: The very basic and important step to start is talk to Lawyer / advocate. You should not hesitate in paying his consultation fee i.e. might be in range of Rs. 10,000 to 50,000 depends case to case. He is helping you in this situation to come out. He is expert in the domain and can help you explain the procedure which you might have never explored. A good lawyer can get the issues resolved much faster than you think.

Report immediately to cyber crime cell and local police station. Preserve all digital evidence including screenshots, chat logs, and social media posts. Contact child protection services to ensure minor victims receive proper counseling and support. Coordinate with school authorities if the victims are students to prevent further contact.

Applicable Sections of Law

This case involves multiple provisions under BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita). Section 64 covers rape and sexual assault, while Section 65 addresses punishment for rape. Section 66 deals with punishment for causing death or resulting in persistent vegetative state of victim. Section 74 covers assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty. Additionally, BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita) provisions for investigation and trial procedures apply, especially regarding protection of child witnesses and in-camera proceedings.

If You Are the Complainant

• File FIR immediately at the nearest police station with all available evidence
• Contact the cyber crime cell for digital evidence preservation and investigation
• Ensure minor victims are accompanied by parents or guardians during statements
• Demand medical examination of victims if physical assault occurred
• Request police protection for victims and witnesses if threats are received

If You Are the Victim

• Report the incident immediately to parents, school counselor, or trusted adult
• Preserve all chat logs, messages, and digital communications as evidence
• Do not delete any social media conversations or posts related to the incident
• Seek medical examination and counseling support through appropriate channels
• Avoid direct contact with the accused and inform police of any further attempts at communication

How the Police Behave in Such Cases

Police typically treat child sexual abuse cases with high priority. They will immediately register FIR and begin investigation. The cyber crime cell will be involved for digital evidence collection. Police usually arrange for female officers during victim statements and ensure in-camera proceedings. The accused is likely to be arrested promptly given the severity of charges involving minors.

FAQs People Normally Have

Can social media evidence be used in court? Yes, digital evidence including screenshots, chat logs, and social media posts are admissible in court with proper authentication.

What happens to the accused during investigation? The accused may be arrested immediately and bail is typically difficult to obtain in child sexual abuse cases.

How are minor victims protected during trial? Courts conduct in-camera proceedings, use video conferencing, and provide special protection measures for child witnesses.

What Evidence Is Required?

• Screenshots of inappropriate conversations and chat logs
• Social media posts and memes containing allegations
• Victim statements recorded under proper procedures
• Medical examination reports if physical assault occurred
• Digital forensic analysis of devices and social media accounts
• Witness testimonies from friends or family members aware of the incidents
• School records or other documents establishing victim ages

How Long Will the Investigation Take?

Child sexual abuse cases are fast-tracked with investigation typically completed within 60-90 days. Court proceedings through special POCSO courts usually conclude within 6-12 months. Digital evidence analysis may add 2-4 weeks to the timeline. The urgency increases due to the involvement of minor victims.

Advocate Sudhir Rao, Supreme Court of India