Delhi Police: Officers Will Depose In Court After Lawyers’ Protest

The Delhi Police assured that its officers will appear physically in courts to depose and submit evidence, following protests by lawyers against frequent non-appearance and reliance on written reports or digital submissions. The assurance came after bar associations highlighted delays and procedural bottlenecks caused by police officers failing to attend hearings, which in turn hampered trials and burdened litigants. Lawyers argued that personal deposition by investigating officers is essential for cross-examination and for preserving the sanctity of the adversarial process. Responding to the concerns, senior police officials confirmed that measures are being taken to ensure officers prioritize court attendance, including administrative instructions and improved coordination with judicial schedules. The issue reflects longstanding friction between police functioning and judicial expectations, with systemic challenges like understaffing, excessive workload, and competing duties often cited as reasons for non-attendance. The development marks a step toward strengthening cooperation between the bar and law enforcement, ensuring more efficient trial proceedings. It also underscores the broader need for systemic reforms, including digital infrastructure, manpower augmentation, and stricter accountability mechanisms, to streamline evidence presentation in criminal trials. The move is expected to restore confidence among the legal fraternity and litigants regarding the seriousness with which law enforcement discharges its obligations in the justice system.