If someone is stalking and threatening you in India, it’s important to take immediate action to protect yourself. Stalking is a serious crime under Indian law, and there are steps you can take to report the behavior and ensure your safety :
1. Contact the Police
Dial 100 (Police Helpline) :
You can call the emergency police helpline to report the stalking and threats. The police will come to your location and assess the situation.
Visit the nearest police station :
Go to the local police station and file a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 354D of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for stalking. Threats can be reported under Section 506 of the IPC, which deals with criminal intimidation.
Important :
The police must register your FIR if the complaint involves a cognizable offense like stalking.
2. Women-Specific Helplines
Women’s Helpline 1091 :
This helpline is specifically designed to help women facing harassment, stalking, or other forms of violence.
Women and Child Development Ministry’s Helpline 181 :
This number provides support to women in distress, including legal advice and protection.
3. Cyber Stalking
If the stalking involves online harassment or threats through social media, phone calls, etc., you can file a complaint with the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal cybercrime.gov.in Provide all the digital evidence like messages, emails, or call logs.
4. Online Police Complaints
Some states in India allow online FIR registration. Check the state police website for the option to file a complaint online, especially if you feel unsafe going to the police station in person.
5. National Commission for Women (NCW)
If you’re a woman, you can also file a complaint with the National Commission for Women. They help women facing harassment and can assist in getting action from law enforcement. Visit NCW to file your complaint online.
6. Protection Orders
If the stalking and threats are persistent, you can apply for a Protection Order under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, which also covers stalking. This can restrict the stalker from approaching or contacting you.
7. Legal Support
Contact a lawyer for legal advice.
8. Safety Measures
Document all incidents, including dates, times, locations, and the nature of the threats. Keep evidence such as screenshots, videos, and messages.
Notify friends or family members about the situation and avoid going to isolated places alone until the situation is resolved.
Protect yourself in times of danger by following the above procedures.