Being Followed or Stalked
Someone repeatedly following, watching, or contacting you against your wishes.
What this generally means
Stalking — whether physical or online — is a specific criminal offence under Indian law and can be reported even before any physical harm occurs.
Your journey
You Are Here
You're trying to understand what to do about being stalked. 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
- 1Keep a written log with dates, times, and locations of each incident.
- 2Save messages, calls, or social media contact as evidence.
- 3File a police complaint or FIR describing the pattern of behaviour.
- 4Consider requesting a restraining or protection order if the stalking continues.
Useful documents
- Log of incidents with dates and times
- Screenshots of messages or calls
- Any CCTV footage you can access
Relevant authorities
- Local Police Station
- State Cyber Crime Cell (if online)
Frequently asked questions
What if the stalker is someone I know?+
The law applies regardless of the relationship. You can still file a complaint against a family member, colleague, or ex-partner.
Is one incident enough to report?+
Yes, you don't have to wait for a pattern. A single alarming incident is worth reporting so there's a record.
Verified resources
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.
Emergency Response Support System (112)
Unified national emergency response number (ERSS) covering police, fire, and medical emergencies, reachable by call, SMS, or the 112 India app.
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.