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Stalking / Voyeurism

Someone is stalking you — following you, monitoring your movements, sending unwanted messages — or has invaded your privacy through voyeurism or recording.

Do this now
  1. 01Document every incident — date, time, location, description
  2. 02Save all messages, emails, social media interactions from the stalker
  3. 03Block the stalker on all social media platforms
  4. 04File an FIR at the nearest police station
  5. 05Report cyber-stalking on Cyber Crime Portal — cybercrime.gov.in
  6. 06Inform trusted family members and friends about the situation
  7. 07Change your daily routine and routes if being physically followed
  8. 08Apply for a restraining order through the court
Evidence to collect
  1. Screenshots of stalking messages and social media interactions
  2. Call records showing repeated unwanted calls
  3. CCTV footage showing the stalker following you
  4. Photographs or videos taken by the stalker (if you have access)
  5. Witness statements from people who saw the stalking
  6. Location tracking data or GPS evidence
  7. Email headers and IP addresses (for cyber-stalking)
Documents you need
  1. FIR copy
  2. Detailed incident log with dates and descriptions
  3. Screenshots and digital evidence
  4. Witness statements
  5. ID proof
  6. Restraining order application (if filing)
Where to complain
  1. Nearest Police Station — FIR under BNS 77/78
  2. Cyber Crime Portal — cybercrime.gov.in (for online stalking)
  3. Cyber Crime Helpline — 1930
  4. National Commission for Women — ncw.nic.in
  5. Women Helpline — 181
  6. Magistrate Court — For restraining / protection order
Laws that apply
  1. BNS Section 78 — Stalking (up to 3 years imprisonment)
  2. BNS Section 77 — Voyeurism (up to 7 years imprisonment)
  3. IT Act Section 66E — Violation of privacy
  4. IT Act Section 67 — Publishing obscene material electronically
  5. BNS Section 75 — Sexual harassment
Understanding the issue

Stalking and voyeurism are criminal offences under BNS. Stalking includes physical following, electronic monitoring, and cyber-stalking through social media. Voyeurism includes watching or capturing images of a woman engaged in a private act. First conviction for stalking can lead to 3 years imprisonment. Voyeurism is punishable up to 7 years. Cyber-stalking is also covered under the IT Act.

When to see a lawyer

Consult a lawyer if the stalking involves threats, if you need a restraining order, or if the police are not taking action on your complaint.