Free legal helpहिन्दी
Legal Saathi
All guides

criminal

Sexual Assault / Rape

You or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault or rape. This guide covers immediate steps, legal rights, and how to file a complaint.

Do this now
  1. 01Ensure safety — move to a safe location immediately
  2. 02Call 112 (Police) or 1091 (Women Police Helpline) or 181 (Women Helpline)
  3. 03Do NOT bathe, change clothes, or wash — preserve forensic evidence
  4. 04Go to the nearest hospital for medical examination and treatment
  5. 05File a Zero FIR at any police station — police CANNOT refuse
  6. 06A woman officer MUST record your statement
  7. 07You have the right to have a support person present during statement
  8. 08Your identity will be kept confidential by law
Evidence to collect
  1. Medical examination report (MLC — Medico Legal Case)
  2. Clothes worn during the assault (do not wash)
  3. CCTV footage from nearby locations
  4. Call records or messages from the accused
  5. Witness statements
  6. Photographs of injuries
  7. DNA and forensic evidence (collected at hospital)
Documents you need
  1. FIR copy
  2. Medical examination report (MLC)
  3. Statement recorded under BNSS Section 183 (before Magistrate)
  4. ID proof of victim
  5. Hospital treatment records
  6. Forensic lab report
Where to complain
  1. Any Police Station — Zero FIR (mandatory acceptance)
  2. Women's Police Station
  3. Hospital — MLC registration
  4. National Commission for Women — ncw.nic.in
  5. One Stop Centre (Sakhi Centre) — For integrated support
  6. CHILDLINE 1098 — If victim is a minor
Laws that apply
  1. BNS Section 63 — Rape
  2. BNS Section 64 — Punishment for rape (minimum 10 years RI)
  3. BNS Section 65 — Rape of a girl under 16 years (stricter punishment)
  4. BNS Section 70 — Gang rape
  5. POCSO Act — Sections 3-10 (If victim is a minor)
Understanding the issue

Sexual assault and rape are among the most serious criminal offences in India. Under BNS Section 63, rape is punishable with rigorous imprisonment of not less than 10 years, extending to life. The law mandates that a woman officer must record the victim's statement. Medical examination must be conducted within 24 hours. The identity of the victim cannot be disclosed. If the victim is a minor, POCSO Act provides additional protection with stricter punishment.

When to see a lawyer

Free legal aid is available for sexual assault victims through DLSA (District Legal Services Authority). A lawyer can help ensure proper investigation, file for compensation under the Victim Compensation Scheme, and represent you in court.