subject: Actions Against The Police - Know Your Rights [print this page] There are an increasing number of cases of police abuse. Hence, we cannot overlook this issue. It is important for every individual to be aware of his civil rights and how to safeguard those rights. Freedom of speech, religion, and a peaceful gathering are all permissible under civil rights and the police or law cannot fine you for this. Of late, the police have been given powers that are actually being misused by a small percentage of them. They feel they are public masters and above the law, which should not be accepted by the citizens.
The newspaper sometimes runs news on how the police have harassed people and have taken action under the pretext of self defense which is sheer nonsense. This behavior is not acceptable and cannot be digested. What we imply here is that as citizens we need to know our rights and use them accordingly for taking appropriate action against the police, if need be.
There are a small percentage of police officers who can be abusive, and severe action is not taken against them by their superiors, which makes the lives of the public more miserable. The very thought of going and complaining is life stressful. Of late, some people do not recognise the police as law protecting authorities; in fact sometimes, it is the police who break the law as our requests fall on deaf ears.
Given below are some pointers on how to react if you are stopped for questioning by the police. These are easy guidelines which would go a long way in dealing effectively with the police and taking action against the police.
Many a time we are stopped by the police while driving. When such a situation arises, make sure to use the right words and actions. Do not panic, and maintain your composure. Similarly, make sure to not argue with them. It is important to maintain your calm not only in words but actions as well, as short temper and bad behavior could work against you. Make sure not to run and do not physically touch the officer. He could put you behind bars if you behaved in an inappropriate manner.
Do not show any signs of resistance. At the same time, make sure to not create a scene or complain. Be assertive and say that you want your lawyer. Make sure to pen down the officer's name, police badge number, the police car number. If you are lucky to find witnesses, make sure to jot down their telephone number and name.
In case of an injury, make sure to document the injury with enough evidence such as a medical report, or even a photograph. If you feel that the police officer has violated your rights, the next step is to file a complaint against the police officer. When you are stopped by a police officer while you are driving, you need to immediately slow down. Get out of the car, show your driving license and car documents. The police have full rights to search your car even if there is no warrant, but if you are confident that you have all the requisite documents, then state that you approve of the search and the police can do nothing about it.
