Domestic violence complaint process
A safety-first guide to domestic violence complaints in India, including evidence, protection, police, and support options.
Domestic violence can include physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse. The first priority is safety, then evidence, support, and legal protection.
Step-by-step
- 1Move to a safe place or contact emergency help if there is immediate danger.
- 2Preserve medical records, photos, messages, call logs, bank records, and witness details.
- 3Contact police, women helplines, Protection Officer, legal aid, or a trusted support organization.
- 4Ask about protection orders, residence orders, maintenance, and child-related relief where relevant.
- 5Do not attend unsafe mediation alone or sign settlement terms under pressure.
Safety first
If violence is ongoing or there is a threat, call emergency services, local police, trusted family, or a nearby support service.
Evidence can be simple
Medical records, photos, messages, neighbours, call records, and bank proof can all matter. Keep backup copies safely.
Legal relief may be civil and criminal
Depending on facts, remedies may include protection, residence, maintenance, custody-related directions, and police complaint.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer to ask for help?
You can approach police, helplines, Protection Officer, or legal aid. A lawyer helps with strategy and court filings.
Can emotional or economic abuse count?
Domestic violence can include more than physical abuse, depending on facts and applicable law.
What if I have no documents?
Start by preserving whatever you have now: messages, photos, witnesses, medical records, or call logs.