Domestic violence

Know your rights and immediate steps if you or someone you know faces domestic violence.

Women Safety← Back to scenarios
Safety note
If you are in immediate physical danger, prioritize your safety. Call 112 or leave to a safe location first.

Quick rights

  • Right to reside in shared household (even if it's not in your name).
  • Right to protection orders that can prevent the abuser from contacting you.
  • Right to monetary relief and maintenance.
  • Right to custody of children in appropriate cases.

What to do now

  1. If in immediate danger, call 112 or 181 (Women Helpline) immediately.
  2. Reach out to a Protection Officer (appointed in every district) or Service Provider.
  3. Document injuries with photos and get a medical examination.
  4. File a complaint at the nearest police station or directly to a Magistrate.
  5. Seek shelter at a designated shelter home if you need to leave immediately.

What NOT to do

  • Don't ignore escalating threats or violence—seek help early.
  • Don't destroy evidence of abuse (messages, photos, medical records).
  • Don't let abuser know you're planning to seek help if it could put you at risk.

What you can say

“I want to file a domestic violence complaint and need a Protection Order.”
“Please connect me with the Protection Officer of this district.”
“I need information about shelter homes in this area.”

Emergency helplines

National Emergency
24x7
Call 112
Women Helpline
24x7
Call 181
Women Helpline (Police)
Call 1091
NALSA / Legal Aid
Legal aid / advice referrals (availability varies by state).
Call 15100

Relevant legal provisions

Article 21 — Right to life and personal liberty
Constitution of India
DV Act — Protection orders and support for domestic violence
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005