The Goa Police app which enables citizens to file a complaint directly means they do not need to visit the police station to register a FIR. This app will be a big boost in bringing down the crime graph as often the police are blamed for not registering a complaint. With this app citizens can directly describe the crime regarding which they want to complain about or also report crimes they have seen. And if they wish they can take a printout of the complaint and go to the police station to get it stamped. Citizens can also track the status of their complaint online.
While assuring transparency the app will save time for the citizens as well as the police. The app has already found favour with locals and tourists and has reportedly hit over 4,000 downloads in the first few days. The app allows the common layman to report crimes through his/her android or iphone. It also makes the jobs of the policemen that much easier. Once a user downloads the app, the person has the ability to record and file a police complaint, without the hassle of visiting the police station and coaxing the duty officer to take down the complaint.
An offence once reported can further be tracked and followed up through the reference ID assigned to the complaint. The app also enables the local police force to stay updated on critical events in the State through the live notification feature. The app currently allows users to instantly call police and emergency services. It is also useful for tourists as it contains information on safety, first aid and traffic offences as well as information on Goa Police stations, units and key personnel. It will go a long way in making the police more responsible and responsive to the complaints of the citizens.
But what is also important is creating awareness among the citizens about the availability of such an app. This awareness should be created by the personnel of the police department and social organizations. However only those who are aware of the app and own the appropriate mobiles will be able to use the Goa Police app.
