Shalini and Poonam were standing on their balcony gossiping about Neha, the new neighbour next doors. Neha and her family had been creating trouble for the neighbours. Troubles like being a bit loud with music, wasting a lot of water overflowing from their tank directly landing on the street, car parked at any space they found free, their dog leaving behind his shit at any nook and corner of the street, etc. Shalini told Poonam that she was done with the warnings. The next time neha’s family did anything annoying, she will call the police. This made Poonam wonder, “I never gave a thought about when should I call the police, even when I faced potential threats”.
Calling the police is often seen as a step taken during emergencies. In India, it is used as a weapon to threaten the opposite party. Indian law actually provides a wide range of situations where involving the police is legally appropriate, or even necessary. Understanding when you should call the police can protect your rights, prevent unnecessary escalation of arguments, and ensure that justice is delivered promptly.
This blog explains the circumstances in which citizens in India may (and sometimes must) call the police, along with practical tips on what to expect.
When Should I call the Police?
1. When a Cognizable Offence Occurs
Under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), offences are divided into cognizable and non-cognizable. One should call the police immediately when a cognizable offence occurs. Given below is the list of major cognizable offences:
- Murder (or culpable homicide)
- Rape or sexual assault
- Kidnapping
- Theft, burglary, robbery, dacoity
- Domestic violence
- Dowry harassment
- Assault causing serious injury
- Fraud, cheating, forgery (in many instances)
- Acid attacks
- Human trafficking
In cognizable offences, police can register an FIR and initiate investigation without a court order. All you need to do is Dial 100 (police) or 112 (national emergency), or visit the nearest police station.
2. When There Is Immediate Threat to Life, Safety, or Property
You should call the police when:
- You or someone else is in physical danger
- You witness violence or threats
- You see suspicious activity that poses a risk
- Your property is being trespassed upon
- There is a fire, major accident, or natural disaster (police coordinate emergency services)
In emergencies, the police are legally required to respond swiftly. So if you are still wondering “when should I call the police?”, when there is obvious danger to life or safety, delaying is not recommended.
3. In Cases of Domestic Violence or Abuse
A few years ago, there was an awareness advertisement starring Boman Irani where some noise of violence from neighbours prompted Boman to ring their doorbell. It was a campaign to ring the bell to stop any type of domestic violence right there. Though it is a good initiative rather than doing nothing, someone asked “when should I call the police when there is extreme violence in the neighbour’s home?”. It is important to know that the victims (or neighbours/friends) can call the police in cases of:
- Physical abuse
- Threats and criminal intimidation
- Forced confinement
- Dowry-related harassment
Police can file FIRs, provide immediate protection, and connect victims to support services and protection officers under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
4. When Someone Goes Missing
If a person, especially a minor, goes missing, you should not wait to ask “when should I call the police”. In such cases, promptly connect with the authorities:
- File a Missing Person Report immediately
- For minors, police treat it as a case of kidnapping by default, unless proven otherwise
- No waiting period is required (there is no 24-hour rule)
5. After a Road Accident
You should call the police when:
- Someone is injured
- There is damage to vehicles or property
- The other party flees the scene
- There is suspicion of drunk driving
- You are involved in a hit-and-run accident
Police will prepare a panchnama, record statements, and assist with insurance procedures.
6. When You Are Being Harassed or Stalked
You should report the Police without delay if you experience any of the following:
- Stalking (physical or online)
- Repeated unwanted contact or threats
- Cyber harassment or cyberstalking
- Unlawful sharing of private images/videos
You can file a complaint at a cyber-crime cell or local police station. Online reporting is also possible through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
7. When a Crime Is Being Witnessed
Indian law encourages bystanders to report crimes. The recent Guidelines ensure that:
- Anyone helping an injured person cannot be harassed or forced to remain at the hospital
- Police cannot compel personal details except minimal voluntary information
This protects well-intentioned citizens who intervene against any kind of institutional/authoritative harassment.
8. For Non-Cognizable Offences, When the Issue Is Escalating
Non-cognizable offences include:
- Public nuisance
- Minor disputes
- Simple hurt
- Defamation
- Minor verbal abuse
For these, police cannot register an FIR without a court order. However, it is still appropriate to contact the police when:
- The situation is escalating
- A formal record is needed
- Mediation or intervention is required
- It can be a record/ entry in the Daily Diary/General Diary
This documentation can be important later.
9. When You Face Threats or Blackmail
If anyone threatens:
- Physical harm
- Damage to property
- Harm to reputation
- Release of private information or images
- Extortion demands
Police intervention is necessary in such cases. Threats, criminal intimidation, and extortion are punishable offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
10. When Law Enforcement Assistance Is Required for Public Order
You may call the police when:
- A public event or gathering becomes unruly
- Illegal activities occur in your neighbourhood
- There is street fighting, vandalism, or public disturbance
- You observe unlawful possession of weapons or suspicious packages
The police are responsible for maintaining public order and tranquility as per Chapter XI of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
Before You Call: Practical Tips
- Stay calm and describe the situation clearly.
- Provide your exact location.
- Mention if the threat is ongoing.
- If safe, record details (vehicles, people, etc.).
- Do not confront dangerous individuals yourself.
Please note that Police are authorities meant for our safety. It is never ever recommended to call the police on individual whims and fancies, or just to threaten the other person. One should be responsible while
When to Call the Police – Conclusion
Calling the police in India is not only a right, but often a legal necessity. That is why knowing when should I call the Police is crucial. Whether you are a victim, witness, or concerned citizen, timely reporting strengthens the justice system and protects lives. If you are ever unsure, remember this rule of thumb:
If there is danger, a crime, or potential harm – call the police.
