Protection Against Stalking
Following, contacting, or monitoring a woman despite her disinterest is a criminal offence.
🗣️ What this means for you
If someone is repeatedly following you, watching your movements, trying to contact you despite your clear refusal, monitoring your internet or phone activity, or loitering near your home or workplace — it is stalking and it is a crime. You can file an FIR and the stalker can be arrested.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
Maintain a detailed log of every stalking incident — date, time, location, and what happened.
Save evidence — screenshots, photos, CCTV footage, witnesses.
Clearly communicate your disinterest — in writing (message/email) if possible, so there is a record.
File an FIR at the nearest police station under BNS Section 78.
If the police refuse to file an FIR, approach the Superintendent of Police or file a complaint to the Judicial Magistrate under BNSS Section 173.
Apply for a restraining order or protection order from the court.
Call Women Helpline 181 or Police 112 for immediate help.
⚖️ The Relevant Law
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (2023)
Section 78 — Stalking
"Any man who follows a woman and contacts, or attempts to contact such woman to foster personal interaction repeatedly despite a clear indication of disinterest by such woman, or monitors the use of the internet, email, or any other form of electronic communication by a woman, commits the offence of stalking."
⚠️ Punishment / Penalty
First offence: imprisonment up to 3 years and fine. Second or subsequent offence: imprisonment up to 5 years and fine. The offence is cognizable (police can arrest without a warrant) and bailable for first offence.
Required Documents
- 📄Log of stalking incidents with dates and times
- 📄Screenshots of unwanted messages/calls
- 📄Photos or CCTV footage of the stalker
- 📄Written communication showing your disinterest
- 📄Witness statements
- 📄ID proof