Mumbai: The State Police Complaints Authority (SPCA), which was established to address grievances against police personnel, has received 487 complaints against police officers and personnel in the first half of 2025. Despite the volume, only 45 cases have been resolved so far. Of the total complaints, 158 were formally admitted for hearings, while 152 were referred to sub-divisional authorities for further action. The rest remain under preliminary scrutiny or pending due process.
The SPCA is an independent body tasked with examining complaints, investigating allegations, and recommending appropriate action to the state government against police personnel found guilty. Allegations often include custodial torture, improper investigation, denial of FIR registration, wrongful arrests, custodial deaths, rape or attempted rape, corruption, extortion, property grabbing, and abuse of power. The authority plays a vital role in ensuring accountability and justice for victims of police misconduct.
Statistical data from recent years highlights the SPCA’s performance. In 2023, the authority received 861 complaints, of which 68 were formally registered, 372 were forwarded to the respective departments, and 420 complaints were resolved. In 2024, the SPCA received 699 complaints. Out of these, 171 cases were registered, 395 were sent to departmental offices, and 128 were resolved, according to officials.
The SPCA serves as a critical redressal mechanism, especially for citizens who feel neglected or intimidated by the police system. Complaints can be submitted in person, by post, or via email—even on plain paper. However, victims must first approach senior police officials with their grievance. If no action is taken within 30 days, the complaint can be escalated to the SPCA within a year of the incident.
This structured process ensures that all other legal remedies are explored before a case reaches the SPCA. With its headquarters in Mumbai and regional offices in Pune, Aurangabad, Nagpur, Amravati, Nashik, and Navi Mumbai, the authority ensures accessibility to citizens across Maharashtra.
The SPCA was established through a Government Resolution (GR) in 2014 and became operational by 2017. Currently, retired High Court Justice Shrihari P. Davare serves as its Chairperson, having assumed office in 2020.
Under Justice Davare’s leadership, the SPCA has emphasized procedural transparency and accessibility. He has clarified that complaints can be submitted even on plain paper, without formalities. The authority is empowered to investigate complaints against police personnel from constables to officers of DIG rank.
As a quasi-judicial body, the SPCA submits investigation reports to the state government within legally defined timelines. Its work has been instrumental in bridging the trust gap between law enforcement agencies and the public. By holding police personnel accountable and resolving complaints, the SPCA plays a crucial role in restoring public faith in the justice system.
In a state like Maharashtra—with its dense urban hubs and complex policing demands—the SPCA plays a pivotal role not just in resolving grievances, but also in shaping a more transparent, citizen-centric policing culture. However, the gap between complaints filed and resolved highlights the urgent need for stronger enforcement, increased staffing, and faster case disposal mechanisms.
Year-wise Statistics:
2023
Total Complaints Received: 861
Cases Registered: 68
Forwarded to Departments: 372
Resolved: 420
2024
Total Complaints Received: 699
Cases Registered: 171
Forwarded to Departments: 395
Resolved: 128
Till June 2025
Total Complaints Received: 487
Cases Registered: 158
Forwarded to Sub-Divisions: 152
Resolved: 45
