Domestic violence is a serious issue affecting many women in India. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (DV Act) provides legal protection and remedies to aggrieved women.
To file a strong case, it is important to have proper documentation, clear facts, and a well-prepared checklist. This guide covers everything you need before filing a domestic violence complaint.
Complainant’s Personal Information
The aggrieved woman must provide:
- Full Name
- Age and Date of Birth
- Present and Permanent Address
- Contact Details (Phone & Email)
- Education and Occupation
- Monthly Income
- Bank details (for financial relief claims)
Respondent’s Details (Husband/Relatives)
Details of accused persons include:
- Husband’s Name
- Names of other respondents (in-laws, relatives)
- Relationship with complainant
- Address and contact details
- Occupation and income
- Whether they live in shared household
Marriage & Relationship Details
- Date and place of marriage
- Type of marriage (registered/traditional)
- Religion and caste
- Dowry/Stridhan details
- Status of marriage (ongoing/divorced/separated)
- Children details (name, age, schooling)
Shared Household Details
- Address of shared household
- Ownership of property
- Whether complainant lived there
- Whether she was forced to leave
Details of Domestic Violence
Clearly mention:
Types of Violence:
- Verbal and Emotional Abuse
- Physical Abuse
- Sexual Abuse
- Economic Abuse
- Threats or intimidation
Incident Details:
- Date and duration
- Place of incident
- Specific events with details
- Any previous police complaints (FIR copy)
Evidence Required
Strong evidence increases case success:
- Medical reports
- Photos/videos
- Witness details
- Messages, emails, call records
- Social media proof
- Previous legal case documents
Reliefs under DV Act
You can claim multiple legal remedies:
- Protection Order (Section 18)
- Residence Order (Section 19)
- Monetary Relief (Section 20)
- Child Custody (Section 21)
- Compensation (Section 22)
- Interim Relief (Section 23)
- Right to residence
Previous or Parallel Cases
Mention if any case is already filed:
- Section 85 BNS FIR
- Maintenance case (Section 144 BNSS)
- Divorce petition
- Child custody case
- Mediation or settlement history
Jurisdiction & Police Details
- Police station details
- Protection officer information
- Area where violence occurred
- Current residence of complainant
Mental & Physical Condition
- Medical or psychiatric treatment
- Financial dependency
- Any threats or pressure
Urgent Relief Requirements
- Immediate danger situation
- Need for shelter or protection
- Urgent child custody
Additional Information
- Any extra demands
- Threats or compromise attempts
- Desired outcome (maintenance, custody, separation, protection)
Conclusion
Filing a domestic violence complaint under the DV Act requires proper planning and documentation. A well-prepared checklist ensures that your case is strong and legally valid.
If you are facing domestic violence, do not hesitate to seek legal help and protection under the law.