Domestic Violence or Abuse at Home
Physical, emotional, or financial abuse from a spouse or family member.
What this generally means
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 covers physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, and provides for protection orders, residence rights, and monetary relief.
Your journey
You Are Here
You're trying to understand what to do about domestic violence. That's a good first step.
Understand Issue
Read through what this situation generally means and what your options are.
Gather Documents
Collect the evidence and paperwork that will support your case.
Contact Resource
Reach out to the most relevant authority, helpline, or legal aid service.
Escalate If Needed
If the first contact doesn't resolve things, escalate to a higher forum or authority.
Follow Up
Track your complaint's status and keep records of every response you receive.
Common next steps
- 1If you're in immediate danger, call 112 or go to a safe location.
- 2Reach out to a One Stop Centre or Women Helpline for shelter and counselling.
- 3Consider filing a Domestic Incident Report with a Protection Officer.
- 4Speak with a free legal aid lawyer about protection and residence orders.
Useful documents
- Medical records of any injuries
- Photos of injuries or damaged property
- Messages or communication showing abuse
- Witness details, if available
Relevant authorities
- Protection Officer (District)
- Local Police Station
- Family Court
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay in my home during proceedings?+
Yes. The law provides for a residence order that can protect your right to stay in the shared household regardless of ownership.
Is this only for married women?+
No, it also covers women in live-in relationships and other domestic relationships defined under the Act.
Verified resources
One Stop Centre (Sakhi) Scheme
State-run support centres under the Ministry of Women & Child Development offering shelter, counselling, medical aid, and legal assistance to women in distress. Reach one via the 181 helpline.
Women Helpline (181)
24x7 national helpline (Ministry of Women & Child Development) for women facing violence or distress, with referral to police, medical, and legal aid.
District Legal Services Authority (Women's Cases)
Free legal consultation and FIR support for women facing harassment or domestic abuse, via NALSA's district network.
National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)
Provides free legal aid and mediation for family disputes, including maintenance and custody, via a 10-language IVR system.