Identification Parade
Things to Know When Pursuing Justice for Child Victims of Sexual Offences
Identification Parade
The Identification Parade is when a group of persons including the accused are assembled in a line-up or a succession of line-ups. The child is then asked to identify the accused from within this group.
This takes place in the presence of 5 government officials who sign off as witnesses (Panchnama)
Time Taken for the Procedure:
Anywhere between 2 to 5 hours not counting the travel and waiting period.
At What Stage does this happen?
The identification parade can take place any-time after 30-60 days of the recording of the initial complaint.
Is it Mandatory?
It is the discretion of the police to call for one. A positive identification can go a long way in helping prosecute the accused.
The police tend to call for an Identification Parade to confirm the identity of the accused. This is known to happen in cases where the accused is a person who is not otherwise known to the child.
Things You Must Take With You
Carry food& water for the child
Carrying coloring books, children’s books, some toys, and video games helps in case the child is made to wait and grows restless.
If you are a parent, carry a valid identification proof.
If you are a support person, carry the CWC order appointing you as support person along with valid identification proof.
Where does the identification parade take place?
The Identification Parade can take place in the jail or in some cases, child friendly considerations are given and it is conducted in a hospital.
If you feel that the jail may be traumatic or not appropriate for the child, you must request the police for the parade to be conducted in a government hospital or any other feasible set up where the child is comfortable.
How to Speak to The Child About the Identification Parade
Tell the child that they will be seeing the accused. Also tell them that the police will be with them throughout and ensure that they will be completely safe.
Describe to them the process so that the children know what to expect. Tell them that the police will take them to a safe room where three or more groups of 6 to 8 men will be brought before them. And that the child will be asked to explicitly point out the accused.
Tell them that this helps the police catch the accused. Tell the child that you may not be allowed inside with them. Re-affirm the notion that the child will be safe.
Listen to what the child has to say and respond positively and appropriately.
Before the Parade:
Co-ordinate with the police to ensure that there is no unnecessary interface between the child and the accused.
During the Parade:
If the child is extremely young, take permission from the police for you and the trusted adult to be with the child.
If the above permission has been given, you or the trusted adult must not prompt the child while the parade is underway.
If the child is feeling too stressed to undergo the parade, ask the police for a later date and/or a change in venue.
After the Parade:
Ensure the interface between the child and accused does not continue for longer than necessary.
Take the child to the park or somewhere where they can unwind, relax and take their mind away from the case.
Allow the child to ventilate and process the experience. Listen patiently and respond gently & appropriately.
Arrange for a session with a professional counselor if necessary.
