27th September 2026: Session on Criminal Procedure to the Women Members of Women's Voice at SCMI House, Bengaluru

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A session on Criminal Procedure was organised for the women members of Women’s Voice, an organisation working with women and adolescent girls from the economically, socially and politically backward communities (slums) of Bengaluru. The session was held on 27 September at SCMI House, with 85 participants.

The session was conducted by Adv. Shahsidhara and Adv. Archana, who introduced the participants to important aspects of criminal procedure and the legal processes that they may encounter in their everyday lives. The session focused particularly on the First Information Report (FIR), writing and submitting a complaint, and the process of obtaining bail. The advocates explained these concepts in simple and accessible terms, enabling the participants to understand their legal rights and the steps they can take when faced with situations requiring legal intervention.

The session was highly interactive and participatory. Participants raised numerous questions based on their own experiences and concerns, creating an open space for discussion and clarification. Group discussions were conducted on how to write a report, followed by presentations that enabled the participants to share their understanding and perspectives with the larger group. This participatory approach helped connect the legal concepts discussed with situations encountered in their communities.

Dr. Ruth Manorama, Secretary of Women's Voice was also present during the session and shared her valuable insights on social change and the importance of law in addressing inequality and strengthening the rights of women and marginalised communities. Her reflections encouraged the participants to view law not merely as a set of procedures, but also as an important instrument for social transformation and empowerment.

Overall, the session provided the women participants with greater awareness of criminal procedures and their legal rights, while encouraging them to ask questions, engage collectively, and recognise the role of law in advancing justice and social change.