Police Should Record Settlements to Avoid Coercion Allegations: Odisha High Court

The Odisha High Court observed that when police facilitate amicable settlements between disputing parties, authorities should preserve video recordings of the process to prevent future allegations of coercion or threats.

The case arose from a dispute between a gym owner and a customer over negative online reviews, which was reportedly settled at a police station. The petitioner later alleged that the settlement was forced by the police.

While declining to entertain the plea under Article 226, the Court noted that the petitioner had already approached other statutory authorities.

However, it advised police authorities to record and preserve settlement proceedings to ensure transparency and protect against future disputes.

[Abhijeet Acharya v. State of Odisha & Ors.]