Advocate Ananya Madhusudhanan

Questions Answered by Advocate Ananya Madhusudhanan (25+ answers)

Q: Hit by bus case closed without any knowledge

Bus hit my car from behind. Full incident captured on my dash camera police registered case but without my knowledge they closed the case

Advocate Ananya Madhusudhanan answered
Since the bus hit your bike and the FIR was closed without your knowledge, you should first obtain copies of the FIR and the police closure report to understand the grounds on which the case was closed, as you have a legal right to these documents. If the closure was done without proper notice or consent, you may challenge it by filing a Protest Petition before the Magistrate Court, requesting the court to reopen the case or order further investigation. Simultaneously, you should submit a written complaint to senior police authorities such as the Superintendent of Police highlighting the improper closure of the case. Regardless of the FIR status, you can also pursue compensation for injuries, medical expenses, vehicle damage, and loss of income by filing a claim before the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal against the bus owner and insurer. Timely legal action is important, and engaging a lawyer to pursue reopening of the case and compensation claims will strengthen your position.

Q: Family DV escalation / Preventive Strategy

A family dispute is pending before the Kerala Women’s Commission. A complaint has been filed by a daughter-in-law against her elderly widowed mother-in-law and two sisters-in-law. The parties live separately and have never lived as a joint household. A procedural reply seeking adjournment and VC has been sent. No FIR exists, but there is concern about possible police escalation and maintaining distance to avoid misunderstanding. Seeking preventive, non-confrontational legal guidance.

Advocate Ananya Madhusudhanan answered
Scope of criminal liability is limited considering the fact that no FIR has been registered till date and that the parties have never resided together. However, if there is a concern about possible police escalation, you may file a petition for anticipatory bail with the help of lawyer to safeguard against any unexpected police action. Participation in the Women’s Commission hearings with legal representation is encouraged, and a clear explanation of facts, including the separate living arrangements, should be submitted.