How to file complaint against domestic violence

Know the procedure to lodge a complaint against domestic violence.

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The constitution of India guarantees substantive justice to its women. Being a woman, if you are feeling you are a victim of domestic violence, you can exercise the power of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.

How can you file a complaint against domestic violence?

As a woman, if you have reason to believe an act of domestic violence has been, or is being, or is likely to be committed, you can go to your nearest police station to file an F.I.R, known as First Information Report.

Remember, the police on duty can’t refuse your complaint and are bound to register it.

If, the police tell you the incident does not fall under their jurisdiction, then ask them to register a Zero-FIR. Zero-FIR means an FIR can be filed in any police station (irrespective of place of incident/jurisdiction) and later, the same can be transferred to the appropriate police station. The police will note down the incident while filing the FIR and ask you to sign it. Please doubled check the information they have written and make sure there is a less chance of discrepancy.

If you feel uncomfortable talking about the problems you have to a male policeman, you can also request the police for female officers to assist you. Other than a police officer, you can also seek help from a protection officer, service provider or Magistrate regarding your problem. Online FIR You can file an online FIR if your state has the facility to do it. Otherwise, you can simply file your complaint by visiting the National Commission for Women website.

You have to fill the form with required details and submit it. You will get a receipt number after submission of the form which you have to note down.

The receipt number will help you to obtain your file number, user id and password within 10 days of filing of complaint when required.

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