The Karnataka Police have been directed to register First Information Reports (FIRs) statewide for cases involving revenge pornography, sextortion, and unauthorized sharing of private photos and videos. This directive, issued by the office of Home Minister Priyank Kharge, aims to ensure swift action against those who share intimate content without consent. It clarifies that consent for capturing photos or videos does not imply consent for their publication or distribution, making such actions punishable offenses.
The order mandates police officers to register FIRs for offenses like revenge pornography, sextortion, and blackmail videos under relevant legal provisions. It emphasizes that victims’ initial consent to recording content should not hinder the registration process. Additionally, it instructs officers to include provisions related to extortion and intimidation in cases involving threats or coercion.
To avoid delays, police stations are required to file a Zero FIR in case of jurisdictional issues and promptly transfer the case to the appropriate station. The directive also emphasizes the removal of objectionable content, preservation of electronic evidence, and collaboration with Cyber Crime Police Stations for technical investigations. It underscores a victim-centric approach, urging officers to handle complaints with dignity, protect victims’ identities, and ensure women’s complaints are recorded by female officers.
Failure to register an FIR promptly, based on the misconception of prior consent, may lead to disciplinary action against officers. This directive by the Karnataka Police aims to uphold privacy rights and establish a consistent and victim-friendly response to such offenses throughout the state.
