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Domestic Violence

You are facing physical, emotional, verbal, or economic abuse from a spouse, partner, or family member in a shared household.

Do this now
  1. 01If in immediate danger, call Women Helpline: 1091
  2. 02Call Police: 100 or 112
  3. 03Go to a safe place — relative's home or shelter
  4. 04Get medical attention for any injuries
  5. 05File a Domestic Incident Report at the police station
  6. 06Contact a Protection Officer in your district
  7. 07Apply for protection order from Magistrate
  8. 08Document all incidents with dates and details
Evidence to collect
  1. Medical reports of injuries
  2. Photos of injuries and damage
  3. Threatening messages, calls, or recordings
  4. Witness statements from neighbors or relatives
  5. Domestic Incident Report
  6. Financial records showing economic abuse
  7. Previous police complaints (if any)
Documents you need
  1. Application under DV Act (through Protection Officer or lawyer)
  2. Medical reports
  3. Marriage certificate
  4. Address proof
  5. Income details
  6. Photos and evidence of abuse
Where to complain
  1. Women Helpline — 1091
  2. Police — 100 / 112
  3. Protection Officer — District office
  4. Magistrate Court — DV Act application
  5. National Commission for Women — ncw.nic.in
  6. State Women's Commission
  7. One Stop Centre (Sakhi Centre) — For comprehensive support
  8. Legal Aid Services — Free legal representation
Laws that apply
  1. Domestic Violence Act, 2005 — Section 3 (Definition)
  2. Domestic Violence Act — Section 12 (Application to Magistrate)
  3. Domestic Violence Act — Section 18 (Protection orders)
  4. Domestic Violence Act — Section 19 (Residence orders)
  5. BNS Section 85-86 — Cruelty by husband or relatives
  6. Dowry Prohibition Act — Section 3
Understanding the issue

Domestic violence is not just physical beating. It includes verbal abuse (insults, humiliation), emotional abuse (threats, isolation), sexual abuse, and economic abuse (not providing money, controlling finances). The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act provides protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief, and custody orders. Any woman in a domestic relationship can seek protection.

When to see a lawyer

Seek legal help immediately. Free legal aid is available through NALSA (15100) and Legal Aid Services. A lawyer can help you get a protection order quickly.