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To curb interference by unsolicited brokers and middlemen in police work, the Malwani police have issued a strict warning against unauthorised entry into the police station premises. Instruction banners have been put up at the entrance gate and inside the premises, cautioning that legal action will be taken against anyone found loitering or entering without a valid reason. According to the notice, under Section 120 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, anyone who wilfully enters a police station without a satisfactory reason may face punishment.

An officer explained the intent behind the order, “The step aims to ensure transparency and prevent any form of middleman activity between complainants and the police. Our goal is to help victims directly by reinforcing lawful communication with officers. We’ve often seen that in many cases, middlemen rush to the police station as soon as a complaint is filed. They hang around all day, intimidate complainants, and twist statements for personal gain. Later, they extort money by claiming they can ‘settle’ matters or strike deals with officers.”

The notice displayed outside Malwani police station warning against unauthorised entry. Pics/By Special Arrangement

“To stop such interference, victims should directly communicate with the police officers concerned so that proper and lawful action can be taken,” the officer added. “This measure is meant to protect and assist genuine complainants.”

Legal context

Section 120 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, makes wilful trespass a punishable offence. It states that any person who, without a satisfactory reason, enters or remains on private or public property — such as government buildings — can face a fine even if no damage is caused. However, legal experts have pointed out that the section may not apply in this context. “Section 120 refers to wilful trespass — when a person enters with intent to commit an offence, such as causing harm or theft,” said a legal expert. “If someone enters a police station without such intent, this section wouldn’t apply. Therefore, the notice, as worded, is legally questionable since it extends the law beyond its scope.”

According to the notice, offenders will be subjected to punishment

Background

In several past cases, minor altercations or disputes escalated unnecessarily due to the involvement of intermediaries. When a complainant approached the police, brokers often advised the accused to file counter-complaints, leading to cases against both parties. These intermediaries frequently pushed for compromises, resulting in genuine victims backing down out of fear. In more serious cases, including property disputes, false allegations were allegedly made under the influence of such brokers. The Malwani police have now taken this step to ensure no false cases are registered and genuine victims receive justice.

Malwani residents weigh in on police’s actions

Vijay Avsare, President, Sahyog Social Welfare Group

‘I applaud the police, as their actions will increase the chances of victims receiving justice. I’ve often noticed that when we sit around and talk, we hear about brokers — people whose sole purpose is to mediate. I have been president of Sahyog Social Welfare Group, a non-political NGO, for the past 25 years and have always worked for the betterment of society. I can confidently say that I have never approached the police station seeking help, either in support of or against anyone. Due to the interference of middlemen, many victims are deprived of justice. I wholeheartedly applaud the move and hope that similar measures are taken in the future’

Shamim Khan, Advertising film producer

‘Even today, ordinary people in India are afraid to visit a police station — even when they are victims of a crime. Many hesitate to file complaints due to fear or lack of confidence in the system. In such situations, if someone encourages them and accompanies them to the police station, it gives the victim some courage. According to the police’s new rule, such individuals may now hesitate to come forward to help victims. The police need to clarify this matter. If the goal is to curb interference by brokers, those individuals can still manage to get their work done by contacting officers or staff over the phone’

Husain Shaikh, Principal, Malwani-based school

‘I applaud this step taken by the police, as it allows people to directly report their issues, problems, or complaints to the officers. Middlemen and other intermediaries often exaggerate incidents that never actually happen. As a result, police action sometimes leads to accusations and charges against individuals for offences they haven’t committed. For instance, in cases of minor fights or altercations, victims — influenced by brokers — often file exaggerated complaints, and in some cases, even POCSO charges are levelled against the accused without proper grounds. I am extremely pleased with this initiative by the police. I only hope they continue to act with complete honesty and responsibility, and that this effort remains consistent in the future’

Sitaram Katlak, Member, Mohalla Committee

‘The police station is not a picnic spot; anyone who goes there goes for a reason. It’s not written on anyone’s forehead that they are a broker. I believe this step has been taken because of the recent arrest and suspension of some officers from the Malwani police station in a bribery case. I have been associated with the Mohalla Committee for over 25 years. Earlier, senior officers would visit, meetings were held, and consultations were taken. But now, people like me are not even invited’