The exact laws, scripts and step-by-step actions for the situations Indians face every day — police on the road, online scams, landlord lockouts, workplace pressure, college misconduct. No jargon. No fluff. Just what to say, what to do, and which section protects you.
Each playbook gives you the right script, the right law, and the next 3 actions — built for the first 10 minutes when panic is highest.
Stopped, searched or accused under NDPS
Police stop, body / vehicle / hostel-room search, friend caught with a banned substance, or you are named in an NDPS FIR.
Do This Right Now
1.Stay silent and calm. Do not sign any panchnama, statement or recovery memo until you have read it line by line.
2.Before any search, demand your Sec 50 NDPS right in writing — to be searched only in the presence of a Gazetted Officer or a Magistrate.
3.Insist that the seizure, weighing and sampling be done on the spot, in the presence of two independent witnesses (panchas), and that you get a signed copy of the panchnama.
4.Note officer names, badge numbers, time, exact place; if possible have a family member or lawyer informed immediately — you have the right to inform someone of your arrest (Art. 22 + DK Basu).
5.Do NOT consent to a 'voluntary' confession to NCB / police — Sec 67 statements are no longer substantive evidence after Tofan Singh (2020).
Your Rights
✓Section 50 NDPS — for personal search of the body, you MUST be told of your right to be searched before a Gazetted Officer / Magistrate. Failure vitiates the recovery.
✓Section 42 / 43 NDPS — secret information must be recorded in writing and sent to a senior officer; non-compliance is a serious defect.
✓Section 41 — a search warrant from a Magistrate is the default; warrantless search needs strict justification on record.
✓Tofan Singh v. State of TN (2020) — a confession to an NCB / DRI / police officer under Sec 67 is NOT admissible as substantive evidence.
✓Small quantity (Sec 27 / 21(a)) is bailable and carries up to 1 year + fine; only commercial quantity attracts the strict bail bar under Sec 37.
✓Right to free legal aid (Art. 39A + LSA Act 1987) — ask the Magistrate for a Legal Services Authority lawyer if you cannot afford one.
Evidence to Preserve
•Photo / copy of the panchnama, seizure memo and arrest memo
•Names, badges and signatures of the searching officers and panch witnesses
•Quantity recovered + whether it is 'small' or 'commercial' as per the official notification
•Whether a Sec 50 written notice was offered before the body search
•Medical examination report (mandatory under BNSS Sec 53) — note any injuries
Where to File / Escalate
→Magistrate within 24 hours of arrest — raise Sec 50 / 42 / 43 non-compliance on the first remand itself
→Sessions Court / High Court — bail application (Sec 37 NDPS bar applies only to commercial quantity)
→State Human Rights Commission / NHRC — for custodial abuse, illegal detention, or planted recovery
→District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) — for a free legal aid advocate
📌 What to say (script)
"Officer, before any search of my person, I am exercising my right under Section 50 of the NDPS Act, 1985 to be searched only in the presence of a Gazetted Officer or a Magistrate. Please record this in writing and give me a copy. I will not sign any statement under Section 67."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A college student in a hostel raid is asked to sign a 'recovery memo' for 4 g of a banned substance found in a common room.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS flags this as a small-quantity NDPS case (Sec 21(a)/27), drafts a Sec 50 objection, a bail application citing Tofan Singh, and a written complaint to the SP about absence of independent panch witnesses.
Situation 2
A driver is stopped at a highway check-post, the car is searched without a warrant, and 'commercial quantity' is allegedly recovered.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a remand-stage memo highlighting Sec 41/42/43 non-compliance, identifies the Sec 37 bail strategy, and produces a draft writ petition under Art. 226 if the seizure was procedurally illegal.
Situation 3
A first-time user is detained at the airport and pressured to give a 'voluntary' confession to NCB officers.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS generates a Tofan Singh-based written refusal to make a Sec 67 statement, a request to inform family under Art. 22, and an application for Legal Services Authority counsel before the Magistrate.
Situation 4
An accused is in judicial custody for over 60 days without a chargesheet on a small-quantity case.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a default bail application under BNSS §187 (historical: CrPC §167(2)) and a representation to the DLSA for urgent legal aid.
NDPS Act 1985 — Sec 27, 37, 41, 42, 43, 50, 67Constitution — Art. 20(3), 21, 22, 39ABNSS 2023 — Sec 35, 47, 53, 58 (arrest, medical, magistrate production)Tofan Singh v. State of TN (2020) 11 SCC 397DK Basu v. State of WB (1997) — arrest safeguards
📜 Source: India Code · Supreme Court of India · NCB Standing Orders
✓POSH Sec 26 — employer penalty up to ₹50,000 for not having an ICC; licence cancellation on repeat.
✓Vishaka Guidelines (1997) — judicially binding even before POSH.
📌 What to say (script)
"I am submitting a formal POSH complaint. I want acknowledgement in writing within 7 days, and the 90-day enquiry timeline as per POSH Sec 11."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A startup CEO 'jokingly' messages a junior designer every night at 1 AM; she has 47 screenshots.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS classifies it as quid-pro-quo + hostile environment, drafts an ICC complaint with a chronological evidence index, and (if no ICC) a Local Committee complaint at the District Officer — including a no-retaliation interim prayer.
Situation 2
A factory of 240 women workers has no ICC and the supervisor brushes off complaints.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a Sec 26 POSH penalty complaint (up to ₹50,000 + licence cancellation), a Labour Department inspection request, and a Tehelka-style media-ready FAQ — ICCs are usually constituted within a week.
Situation 3
A college professor offers 'extra marks' for personal meetings off-campus.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS produces a UGC SAKSHAM complaint, an ICC + Internal Committee parallel filing, and a BNS Sec 75/76 FIR template — designed so the student never has to confront the professor directly.
Situation 4
An employee files a POSH complaint and is suddenly given a PIP and a transfer to Guwahati.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a POSH Sec 14 retaliation complaint to the ICC + employer, a Sec 11 enquiry-timeline reminder, and a writ petition draft under Art. 226 against the punitive transfer.
POSH Act 2013BNS 2023 — sexual harassment / stalking provisions
2.Ask politely under which section you are being stopped or detained.
3.Refuse cash payments — insist on a digital e-challan via Parivahan.
4.Note badge number, name, station; start a discreet voice recording.
Your Rights
✓Cash 'fine' without a printed receipt is bribery under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
✓License/RC seizure under MV Act Sec 206 requires a written seizure memo naming the court.
✓Article 22 — right to know grounds of arrest and to consult a lawyer of choice.
✓Article 21 — protection of life and personal liberty; arbitrary detention is unlawful.
Evidence to Preserve
•Audio recording, badge/name, station name, time and location
•Photo of the challan or seizure memo (if any)
•Witnesses present at the spot
Where to File / Escalate
→Senior officer at the same police station / SP office
→Anti-Corruption Bureau (for bribe demand)
→State Human Rights Commission (for misconduct)
📌 What to say (script)
"Sir, I am happy to cooperate. Please issue an e-challan to my number. I will not pay cash without a receipt — that would be bribery and I will have to report it."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A delivery rider is stopped at a junction, his keys are taken, and a constable demands ₹500 'or else'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS auto-drafts an on-the-spot script + an SMS to Anti-Corruption Bureau (state-specific number), and a Sec 7 Prevention of Corruption Act complaint with the badge number — sent before he reaches home.
Situation 2
A woman is pulled over after 10 PM, the officer wants her to come to the station 'for questioning'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS triggers a safety-first flow: BNSS Sec 43(5) reminder (women not to be arrested after sunset / before sunrise except with written reasons), one-tap location ping to two emergency contacts, and a draft complaint to the SHO + SP.
Situation 3
A driver's RC + DL are seized but no written seizure memo is given.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS generates a written demand under MV Act Sec 206 for the memo and the court name, plus an RTI to the traffic cell — both ready to submit at the PS in the same visit.
Situation 4
An e-challan is generated for a car that wasn't even in that city that day.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a Parivahan dispute mail with the FASTag log, fuel-station bill and CCTV request as attachments, plus an escalation template to the Traffic Commissioner.
→Police (FIR) and ACB (for bribery in govt. institutions)
📌 What to say (script)
"I am filing a written grievance under the UGC (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations and a parallel complaint with the Anti-Ragging Cell / ACB as applicable. Please acknowledge in writing."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A first-year student is ragged by seniors who film it for an Instagram 'prank' page.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a parallel anti-ragging complaint (antiragging.in + UGC + helpline 1800-180-5522), an FIR draft under BNS provisions, and an IT Rules 2021 takedown to Meta — usually pulls the reel within 36 hours.
Situation 2
A college withholds the marksheet of a student who complained about a professor.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a UGC Grievance Redressal complaint, an RTI to the Registrar, and a ready-to-file writ petition under Art. 226 — the threat of the writ alone usually releases the marksheet.
Situation 3
A professor in a govt college demands ₹40,000 'project fee' in cash to clear a backlog.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a sting-ready Anti-Corruption Bureau complaint (Sec 7 PCA), a UGC ombudsperson note, and a parental disclosure script — protecting the student's identity throughout.
Situation 4
A women's hostel imposes a 6 PM curfew that doesn't apply to the men's hostel.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS produces a written representation citing UGC SAKSHAM guidelines + Art. 14/15 of the Constitution, addressed to the VC, UGC and State Women's Commission — designed to be co-signed by 20+ students.
UGC Anti-Ragging Regulations 2009UGC Grievance Redressal RegulationsPrevention of Corruption Act 1988BNS 2023 — extortion / intimidation / assault
"I want to register a Zero FIR for stalking and criminal intimidation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 read with BNSS Sec 173. I also have digital evidence under the Information Technology Act, 2000."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A 22-year-old is followed home from her metro station three nights in a row.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS triggers a safety-first pack: live location share with 2 contacts, a Zero FIR draft for stalking (BNS Sec 78), and a written request to the metro DCP for CCTV preservation under BNSS within 24 hours.
Situation 2
An ex partner is posting morphed images on a fake Instagram handle.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a Sec 66E + Sec 67/67A IT Act FIR, a Meta IT Rules 2021 Grievance Officer notice (36-hour mandate), and a request to the Court for an interim injunction blocking the URL.
Situation 3
A whistle-blower employee starts receiving anonymous 'we know where your kid studies' messages.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a Witness Protection Scheme 2018 application, a Sec 351 BNS intimidation FIR, and a parallel representation to the SP for police protection at the school gate.
Situation 4
A college student is being doxxed on a Telegram channel with 4,000+ members.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a Sec 69A IT Act blocking request through MeitY, an FIR for criminal intimidation + obscenity, and an emergency abuse@telegram.org notice in the format Telegram actually acts on.
1.Call 1930 immediately — the bank can attempt to freeze the receiver's account in the golden hour.
2.Report on cybercrime.gov.in with transaction ID, UPI ID, screenshots and bank statement.
3.Notify your bank in writing within 3 days to invoke RBI's limited-liability protection.
4.Do NOT click any 'refund' or 'recovery' link sent later — that is a second-stage scam.
Your Rights
✓Zero FIR — you can file at ANY police station under BNSS §173 (historical: CrPC §154).
✓RBI 'limited liability' circular — reporting unauthorised electronic transactions within 3 working days can reduce or zero your liability.
✓Refusal by police to register a cognizable cyber offence is itself punishable under BNS §198 (historical: IPC §166A).
Evidence to Preserve
•Bank SMS / app screenshot of the debit
•UPI / transaction reference IDs
•Caller numbers, chat logs, email headers, URLs
•1930 acknowledgement number and cybercrime.gov.in complaint number
Where to File / Escalate
→Helpline 1930 (National Cyber Crime)
→cybercrime.gov.in
→Your bank / payment app grievance officer
→Local police / cyber police station (Zero FIR)
📌 What to say (script)
"I want to register a Zero FIR for cyber fraud under the Information Technology Act, 2000 (Sec 66C / 66D) read with BNSS Sec 173. Please record my complaint and give me a copy."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A salaried mother loses ₹2.4 L in a 'KYC expiry' UPI scam at 11 PM; her bank's branch opens at 10 AM next day.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS opens a Golden-Hour Pack the moment she types — auto-fills the 1930 script, generates a one-page bank email triggering RBI's 3-day limited-liability clock, and a Zero FIR draft she can email to any PS overnight.
Situation 2
A college student is duped into clicking a 'task-based earning' Telegram scam and is now being blackmailed with screen recordings.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS classifies it as cyber extortion + sextortion, drafts parallel complaints under IT Act Sec 66E + 67 and BNS provisions, and a takedown notice to Telegram's Grievance Officer under IT Rules 2021 (36-hour mandate).
Situation 3
A retired uncle is convinced a 'Mumbai Crime Branch' call has put him under 'digital arrest' and asks for ₹15 L.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS shows him the 'no such thing as digital arrest' RBI/MHA advisory, walks him through a 1930 + cybercrime.gov.in filing in under 8 minutes, and prepares a written request to the bank for chargeback / lien on the mule account.
Situation 4
A founder's startup account is drained via an OTP-bypass on a corporate card.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS produces a 'Section 79 + RBI limited-liability' notice to the bank and PA, a CERT-In incident report draft, and a complaint pack ready for the cyber police station — all from the same chat thread.
Physical, emotional, sexual or economic abuse by spouse, partner, in-laws or family.
Do This Right Now
1.If unsafe right now — call 112 (police) or 181 (women's helpline). Move to a safe room or neighbour.
2.Photograph injuries, save threatening messages, get a medical report from any govt hospital (free).
3.Approach the District Protection Officer to file a Domestic Incident Report (DIR) under PWDVA.
4.Parallel FIR under applicable BNS provisions if cruelty or dowry demand exists — cognizable.
Your Rights
✓Right to reside in the shared household — you cannot be thrown out (PWDVA Sec 17).
✓Magistrate can pass an EX-PARTE protection order in the FIRST hearing (Sec 23).
✓Right to monetary relief, custody of children and a residence order (Sec 18-20).
✓Streedhan — your jewellery and gifts received at marriage remain YOUR exclusive property.
📌 What to say (script)
"I want to file a Domestic Incident Report under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 and seek a protection, residence and monetary order."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A homemaker is locked out of the shared house at midnight; her in-laws keep her jewellery 'for safekeeping'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a PWDVA Sec 17 + Sec 19 residence order, a streedhan recovery application (BNS misappropriation), and a 181 women's helpline + One-Stop Centre referral — all before sunrise.
Situation 2
A working wife is told 'you can have the kids only if you sign away maintenance'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a Sec 23 PWDVA ex-parte interim custody + maintenance application, a Sec 144 BNSS maintenance claim, and a Guardians and Wards Act caveat — making the threat legally meaningless.
Situation 3
A man is being threatened with a false 498A FIR to settle a property dispute.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares an Arnesh Kumar v. State (2014) compliance reminder for the IO (no automatic arrest), a Family Welfare Committee referral as per state-specific HC guidelines, and a pre-arrest bail petition draft.
Situation 4
A senior citizen is being financially abused and isolated by her son.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a Maintenance & Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 application before the Tribunal — gift deeds obtained by neglect can be voided, often in a single hearing.
•Emails / chats / recordings of threats or harassment
•Witness statements, CCTV requests in writing
Where to File / Escalate
→Internal Complaints Committee (POSH) or Local Committee at the District Officer's office
→Labour Commissioner (wages / unfair termination)
→Police (FIR) for criminal intimidation / assault
📌 What to say (script)
"I'd like everything discussed today in writing, including the reason for action and the full & final settlement. I will respond after legal consultation. Please do not pressure me to sign anything today."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
An engineer is called into a 'feedback' meeting and handed a pre-typed resignation letter to sign 'in 10 minutes'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS generates a calm 'I'll respond in writing within 24 hours' script, a same-day summary email to HR creating a paper trail, and a forced-resignation challenge draft under the Industrial Disputes Act.
Situation 2
A junior employee's salary has been withheld for 47 days; HR keeps saying 'next cycle'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS auto-builds a Code on Wages, 2019 demand notice, a Labour Commissioner complaint under the Payment of Wages Act, and (if amount > ₹5 L) a Sec 9 IBC notice — the threat alone usually triggers payment.
Situation 3
A startup fires 11 employees over a WhatsApp group with no notice or settlement.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS assembles a group complaint pack: Sec 25F ID Act retrenchment notice, gratuity claim under the Payment of Gratuity Act, and a collective Labour Court reference — one upload, eleven personalised PDFs.
Situation 4
A manager keeps making 'jokes' about a female employee in team meetings; she's nervous to escalate.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS writes a confidential POSH complaint to the ICC, a parallel email to the District Officer's Local Committee if the company has no ICC, and a draft request for a no-retaliation order under POSH Sec 14.
Calls to your contacts, morphed photos, abuse before 8 AM / after 7 PM.
Do This Right Now
1.Block & screenshot every call/message — do NOT pay any 'extra' to recovery agents.
2.File on cybercrime.gov.in and lodge a complaint via RBI's Sachet portal (sachet.rbi.org.in).
3.Written complaint to the lender's nodal/grievance officer; escalate to RBI Banking Ombudsman within 30 days.
4.If the app is unregistered: complain to your app store and to law-enforcement.
Your Rights
✓RBI Digital Lending Guidelines, 2022 — only Regulated Entities (banks / NBFCs) and their LSPs can lend; recovery practices are tightly regulated.
✓RBI Fair Practices Code for Recovery — no calls before 8 AM / after 7 PM, no third-party shaming, no abusive language.
✓Public shaming via contacts can amount to extortion, criminal intimidation and defamation under BNS provisions.
✓Unauthorised disclosure of personal data / morphed images is punishable under the IT Act (e.g., Sec 66E for privacy).
Evidence to Preserve
•Screenshots of messages, contact-list misuse, morphed images
•Call recordings with timestamp
•Loan agreement / app screenshots and KYC documents shared
Where to File / Escalate
→cybercrime.gov.in
→RBI Sachet — sachet.rbi.org.in
→RBI Banking Ombudsman (after lender response or 30 days)
→Police / FIR for criminal intimidation, extortion or defamation
📌 What to say (script)
"You are violating the RBI Digital Lending Guidelines, 2022 and the Fair Practices Code. All calls are being recorded. A complaint has been filed on cybercrime.gov.in and RBI Sachet."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A borrower's morphed photo is sent to every contact in her phone after a 3-day loan delay.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts an IT Act Sec 66E + BNS extortion FIR, a Sachet RBI portal complaint, and a Google Play / App Store takedown — plus a defamation notice that lenders almost always settle out of court.
Situation 2
A user finds the 'loan app' is not on the RBI Regulated Entity list.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS auto-checks the lender against RBI's published list, generates a complaint to the State Cyber Cell + RBI + MeitY for an unregistered lending app, and a chargeback request to the UPI handle used.
Situation 3
An employee's HR receives shaming WhatsApp forwards from a recovery agent.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS sends a cease-and-desist citing RBI Fair Practices Code + DPDP Act 2023, copied to the Banking Ombudsman — usually stops contact within 48 hours.
Situation 4
A 19-year-old has ₹38,000 'rolled over' into 6 different fake apps and the EMIs are spiralling.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a single 'consolidated harassment' complaint listing each app, a request for a chargeback chain, and a mental-health helpline + iCall referral — because in NDPS, money and panic move together.
RBI Digital Lending Guidelines 2022RBI Fair Practices Code for RecoveryIT Act 2000 — Sec 66EBNS 2023 — extortion, intimidation, defamation
"This is an illegal eviction. Under the Model Tenancy Act, 2021 and Section 6 of the Specific Relief Act, 1963 please restore my access within 24 hours, failing which I will file an FIR and a civil suit."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A working couple's landlord changes the padlock at 2 PM while they're at office, claiming 'one month rent pending'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS sends a one-tap WhatsApp + email + registered-post bundle citing BNS §329 trespass (historical: IPC §§441/447) + Sec 6 Specific Relief Act, plus a pre-filled 100/112 complaint script the police on the spot find hard to refuse.
Situation 2
A PG owner cuts the electricity meter to push three students out before exam week.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a mandatory-services restoration notice (citing Electricity Act + nuisance under BNS) and a parallel complaint to the local Electrical Inspector — usually restores power within 24 hours.
Situation 3
A landlord refuses to refund a ₹2.4 L deposit citing 'wear and tear'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS produces an itemised deposit-deduction rebuttal, a Model Tenancy Act / Rent Authority complaint, and a Small Causes Court plaint with interest at 6% — all from the rent agreement scan.
Situation 4
A single woman tenant gets threatening calls from the owner's relatives to 'vacate by Sunday'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a Zero FIR draft for criminal intimidation + trespass, plus a women's-helpline (181) referral and a request for police beat patrolling for 7 days.
"This is a formal grievance under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 and the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020. Please refund / replace within the statutory period, failing which I will file before the Consumer Commission via e-Daakhil."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A buyer's ₹78,000 phone arrives with a bar of soap instead — the platform refuses refund citing 'no video proof of unboxing'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a Sec 2(11) 'deficiency in service' complaint, an e-Daakhil filing with delivery photos + warehouse weight slip, and a Sec 94 CPA notice for unfair trade practice — refunds usually issue before the first hearing.
Situation 2
A hospital double-bills a patient ₹1.4 L for a procedure already paid via insurance cashless.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a State Consumer Commission complaint with the discharge summary, a parallel IRDAI grievance, and a CCPA representation for misleading billing — compensation under CPA 2019 includes punitive damages.
Situation 3
An influencer-promoted 'skin lightening' product gives a teenager a rash; the ad never mentioned side effects.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a CCPA misleading-advertisement complaint, an ASCI complaint, and an FSSAI / CDSCO referral — including a Drugs & Magic Remedies Act angle the brand rarely sees coming.
Situation 4
A real-estate developer delays possession by 3 years and refuses interest.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS auto-assembles a RERA complaint with delay interest at SBI MCLR + 2%, plus a parallel NCDRC complaint for compensation — choose-your-forum strategy explained in plain English.
Random checking, 'just unlock it', or threats to take your phone.
Do This Right Now
1.Politely refuse. Say you want a written order or warrant.
2.Do not unlock or hand over the device voluntarily.
3.Ask which section authorizes the search; ask for a witness (panch).
Your Rights
✓Search of a personal device requires legal process — Article 21 (Right to Privacy, Puttaswamy 2017).
✓BNSS §185 (historical: CrPC §165) requires recorded grounds + a panchnama for any search.
✓You cannot be forced to share your password — protected by Article 20(3) (self-incrimination).
📌 What to say (script)
"I respect your duty, sir. But under Article 21 and BNSS Sec 185, I would like a written order before unlocking my device. I am not refusing cooperation — I am asking for due process."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A protester is asked to 'unlock for a quick check' at a rally.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS shows a one-screen Art. 20(3) + Puttaswamy script in Hindi/English, generates an on-the-spot demand for a BNSS Sec 185 written order, and a complaint draft to the SP if the phone is taken anyway.
Situation 2
A journalist's devices are seized during a raid with no hash-value list of the data copied.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a Magistrate application citing Virendra Khanna v. State (Karn HC) — police must follow a hash + cloned-image protocol — and a Sec 91 BNSS notice for return of devices not relevant to the FIR.
Situation 3
An airport CISF officer demands a phone unlock 'for random check'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS produces a written grievance to the CISF Public Grievance Portal + DGCA, citing that CISF mandate is physical security, not data search — usually resolved at the duty officer level.
Situation 4
A college warden enters a student's room and downloads chats from his laptop.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a privacy complaint under DPDP Act 2023 + Art. 21, a UGC grievance, and a civil suit draft for damages — most colleges settle with a written apology.
Person picked up, no FIR copy, no arrest memo, not produced before Magistrate within 24 hours.
Do This Right Now
1.Demand the arrest memo and FIR copy in writing — refusal itself is a violation of DK Basu guidelines.
2.Inform a relative and a lawyer immediately; note officer name, badge, station, time of pickup.
3.If 24 hours have passed without Magistrate production — file Habeas Corpus in the High Court.
4.Parallel complaint to State Human Rights Commission and DGP / SP in writing.
Your Rights
✓Article 22(1) — right to be informed of grounds and to consult a lawyer of choice.
✓Article 22(2) — must be produced before a Magistrate within 24 hours, excluding travel time.
✓DK Basu guidelines — arrest memo, medical exam and intimation to a relative are mandatory.
✓Any relative can file Habeas Corpus under Article 226 / 32 — the High Court can order release the same day.
📌 What to say (script)
"Under Article 22 and DK Basu guidelines, please furnish the arrest memo, grounds of arrest and produce the detainee before the Magistrate within 24 hours."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A 20-year-old is picked up at 2 AM for 'questioning'; the family is told 'he'll be back by morning' — 36 hours pass with no Magistrate production.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a Habeas Corpus draft under Art. 226 (any High Court accepts WhatsApp/email same-day filings), a parallel NHRC + SHRC complaint, and a written demand for the arrest memo + medical exam under DK Basu.
Situation 2
A migrant worker is detained for a property dispute on the complaint of a powerful local figure.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares an Arnesh Kumar compliance notice (no automatic arrest below 7 years), a Sec 35 BNSS arrest-grounds challenge, and a free Legal Services Authority advocate request — usually secures release within 24 hours.
Situation 3
A protester is held at an unofficial 'lock-up' (not the gazetted PS).
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS files a Habeas Corpus, an NHRC urgent action complaint, and a contempt notice citing DK Basu — unofficial detention is itself contempt of the Supreme Court.
Situation 4
An accused under preventive detention (NSA / state goonda act) has been kept beyond the advisory-board limit.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a writ petition with the AK Roy v. UoI checklist, a representation to the Advisory Board, and a state-specific Goonda Act compliance note — preventive detention has narrow procedural traps that courts honour.
Constitution Art. 22, 226DK Basu vs State of WB (1997)BNSS Sec 35, 47, 58
Bank returned the cheque — insufficient funds, signature mismatch or stop payment.
Do This Right Now
1.Collect the cheque return memo from your bank — note the date and reason.
2.Send a statutory demand notice within 30 DAYS of the memo (registered post / speed post — keep proof).
3.Wait 15 days after notice for payment. If unpaid — file complaint within the next 30 days.
4.Filing court: Magistrate at the place of the BANK BRANCH where you presented the cheque.
Your Rights
✓Section 138 NI Act — up to 2 years jail and / or fine up to TWICE the cheque amount.
✓Section 143A — interim compensation up to 20% of cheque amount during trial.
✓Summary trial — no need for a full civil suit; the Magistrate decides quickly.
✓Limitation is strict — missing the 30+15+30 day window can kill the case.
📌 What to say (script)
"This is a statutory demand notice under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881. Pay the cheque amount within 15 days, failing which criminal proceedings will follow."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A freelance designer is paid via a ₹3.2 L cheque that bounces; the client now ghosts on WhatsApp.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS computes the strict 30+15+30 day clock, auto-drafts the statutory demand notice with the bank return memo, and a Sec 138 NI Act complaint pre-formatted for the local Magistrate.
Situation 2
A small business gets 11 bounced cheques across 4 customers; each Sec 138 case eats months.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS bundles them into a single workflow: 11 demand notices, 11 complaints, and a Sec 143A interim compensation (up to 20%) prayer in each — recovery starts before judgment.
Situation 3
A landlord receives a 'stop-payment' cheque from a departing tenant and is told 'go to court'.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS notes that 'stop payment' is still Sec 138 (Goa Plast & Modi Cements), drafts the notice + complaint, and parallel-files a small-causes civil suit for deposit + damages.
Situation 4
An NRI receives a bounced cheque from an Indian buyer; he doesn't want to fly down for hearings.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a Power of Attorney + Sec 145 NI Act affidavit-evidence template — entire Sec 138 trial can run without the NRI's physical presence after the first hearing.
Child caught in online exploitation (POCSO + IT Act)
A minor receives sexual messages, gets added to an adult / obscene group, or CSAM is being shared, threatened or demanded.
Do This Right Now
1.If the child is in immediate danger, call 112 and 1098 (Childline) now.
2.Report on cybercrime.gov.in → Women / Child track AND on POCSO e-Box (ncpcr.gov.in/pocso/Public).
3.Visit the nearest police station / SJPU for an FIR — POCSO FIRs must be registered (Sec 19).
4.Email the platform's grievance officer for takedown under IT Rules, 2021.
5.Do NOT forward, download, screenshot or save any unlawful content — that itself is an offence (Sec 67B IT Act).
Your Rights
✓POCSO Act, 2012 — Sec 19 makes reporting MANDATORY for anyone with knowledge of an offence; Sec 21 punishes failure to report.
✓POCSO Sec 23 — the child's identity must be kept confidential in all proceedings, media and posts.
✓IT Act Sec 67B — specifically criminalises creation, browsing, downloading or transmission of CSAM.
✓Good-faith reports under POCSO are legally protected.
Evidence to Preserve
•URLs, group links and usernames — recorded as text in a note, not downloaded
•Timestamps and the device on which content surfaced
•Non-image screenshots of threats or grooming text
•Names of any other witnesses
Where to File / Escalate
→cybercrime.gov.in — 'Report Crime Related to Women / Children' track
→POCSO e-Box on ncpcr.gov.in/pocso/Public (confidential)
→Nearest police station / SJPU — FIR (Zero FIR acceptable)
→Childline 1098 for the child's immediate safety; ERSS 112 for emergencies
→Platform grievance officer — for takedown under IT Rules, 2021
📌 What to say (script)
"I am reporting an offence under the POCSO Act, 2012 and IT Act, Sec 67B. The child's identity must be kept confidential under POCSO Sec 23. Please register the FIR and refer the child to the Child Welfare Committee if needed."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
Someone adds a class-10 girl to a WhatsApp group with adult content; her parents discover it.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS flags this as POCSO + IT Act Sec 67B + group-admin liability, drafts the cybercrime.gov.in (Women/Child track) complaint, the POCSO e-Box submission and a platform takedown request — without ever asking you to forward the content.
Situation 2
A teacher messages a 14-year-old privately with sexualised content.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS prepares a POCSO complaint (Sec 11/12), a school-management complaint citing institutional mandatory-reporting duty, and a parallel SJPU FIR — with the child's identity protected throughout.
Threats to release private photos / videos, non-consensual intimate imagery, or demands for money to suppress them.
Do This Right Now
1.Do NOT pay. Compliance escalates demands.
2.If there's any physical threat, call 112.
3.Save the threats and payment demands as text screenshots (not the imagery itself).
4.Report on cybercrime.gov.in → Women / Child track.
5.File at the local cyber cell / police station — Zero FIR is acceptable.
6.Send a takedown request to the platform's grievance officer under IT Rules, 2021.
Your Rights
✓IT Act Sec 66E — non-consensual capture/transmission of private images is a punishable offence.
✓BNS Sec 77 (voyeurism), Sec 78 (stalking, including online) and Sec 75 (sexual harassment) commonly apply.
✓Victim identity in sexual offences is legally protected by courts.
✓Intermediaries must act on takedown requests within statutory timelines (IT Rules, 2021).
Evidence to Preserve
•Text screenshots of threats and demands
•Suspect handles, phone numbers, UPI IDs, bank accounts
•Exported chat history and timestamps
•Records of any payment already made
Where to File / Escalate
→cybercrime.gov.in — Women / Child track
→Local cyber cell / police station — FIR (Zero FIR acceptable)
→Platform grievance officer for content takedown
→Bank / UPI app — stop-payment and account flag
📌 What to say (script)
"I am reporting blackmail and threatened release of intimate content under IT Act Sec 66E/67 and BNS Sec 77/78. Please register the FIR, take down any circulated content, and protect my identity."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A woman is told by an ex-partner that her private photos will be uploaded unless she pays ₹50,000.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a sextortion FIR, a cybercrime.gov.in complaint, a platform takedown request, and a bank stop-payment letter — all in one bundle, with a no-pay safety brief.
IT Act, 2000 — Sec 66E, 67/67A; Sec 67B if a minor is involvedBNS, 2023 — Sec 77, Sec 78, Sec 75; extortion / criminal intimidation
📜 Source: cybercrime.gov.in · India Code — IT Act 2000 · India Code — BNS 2023
"I am reporting in good faith under POCSO Sec 19. Please verify the child's safety, register the report, and refer to the CWC if the child is in need of care and protection. Keep the child's identity confidential."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
A neighbour notices a small child is regularly left alone with visible bruises.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts a confidential POCSO e-Box submission, a CWC referral note under JJ Act Sec 31, and a Childline intimation — preserving the reporter's confidentiality.
"I am reporting online stalking / impersonation / obscene contact under BNS Sec 78 and IT Act Sec 66C/66D/66E. Please register the complaint and direct the platform to take down impersonating accounts."
How VakilSOS helps — real situations
Situation 1
Someone creates a fake Instagram in a woman's name and DMs her contacts with obscene content.
VakilSOS does
VakilSOS drafts the cybercrime.gov.in complaint, a platform impersonation/takedown request, and an FIR under IT Act Sec 66C/66D + BNS Sec 78 — without engaging the impersonator.
Devices contain personal data — protected under the right to privacy. Search needs recorded grounds + a witness.
📜 Article 21 (Puttaswamy 2017) + BNSS Sec 185
03Cash 'fine' without a receipt is bribery
Every legitimate challan is on Parivahan / e-challan. Cash demands are punishable under PCA 1988.
📜 Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 — Sec 7
04Your employer threatening you is a crime
Verbal threats — 'I'll fire you', 'I'll ruin your career' — qualify as criminal intimidation.
📜 BNS 2023 §351 (historical: IPC §§503/506)
05Recordings of conversations YOU are part of are usually admissible
Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam §63 allows electronic records as evidence with a certificate. Secret recording of others without participation is risky.
📜 BSA 2023 §63 (historical: Indian Evidence Act 1872 §65B)
06Landlords cannot lock you out without a court order
Even if rent is unpaid, eviction requires a Rent Authority / Civil Court order. Self-help eviction is criminal trespass.
📜 BNS 2023 §329 (historical: IPC §441) + Specific Relief Act 1963 §6 + Model Tenancy Act 2021
07You have the right to a free legal aid lawyer
Anyone earning under the state limit (or in custody, woman, child, SC/ST, victim of trafficking) gets a free advocate from the Legal Services Authority.
08Your data has rights — and companies have penalties
Under the DPDP Act 2023, mishandling your personal data attracts penalties up to ₹250 crore. You can demand deletion ('right to erasure').
📜 Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023
09You cannot be detained beyond 24 hours without a magistrate
Mandatory production before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest — non-negotiable.
📜 Article 22(2) + BNSS Sec 58
10Refund is your right under e-commerce rules
Defective product / service deficiency = mandatory replacement or refund. No 'no refund' policy can override the Consumer Protection Act.
📜 Consumer Protection (E-commerce) Rules 2020
Legal Registry
Indian law directory — by situation.
Compact, structured entries with section, punishment, bailability, cognizability and what to do right now. Sourced from BNS, BNSS, IT Act, NDPS Act, Motor Vehicles Act, POSH, Consumer Protection Act, NI Act and RBI guidelines.
This directory is general legal information for India. It is not legal advice or representation. Criminal classification, bailability and filing route can depend on facts, state practice and amendments.
If any person, dishonestly or fraudulently, does any act referred to in section 43 (unauthorised access, damage, denial-of-access, etc.), it is a computer-related offence.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine up to ₹5 lakh, or both.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
IT Act §66C (2000) — Identity theft
IT Act · Cognizable, bailable
Fraudulent or dishonest use of another person's electronic signature, password, or any other unique identification feature.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹1 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
IT Act §66D (2000) — Cheating by personation by using computer resource
IT Act · Cognizable, bailable
Cheating by pretending to be someone else, using a computer resource or communication device — the statutory basis for phishing, fake KYC, fake job offers, and impersonation scams.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 3 years and fine up to ₹1 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
IT Act §66E (2000) — Violation of privacy
IT Act · Cognizable, bailable
Intentionally or knowingly capturing, publishing or transmitting the image of a private area of any person without their consent, under circumstances violating their privacy.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine up to ₹2 lakh, or both.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
IT Act §67 (2000) — Publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form
IT Act · Cognizable, bailable
Publishing or transmitting, in electronic form, any material which is lascivious or appeals to prurient interest, or has the effect of depraving persons likely to view it.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
First conviction: up to 3 years and fine up to ₹5 lakh. Second/subsequent: up to 5 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
IT Act §67A (2000) — Publishing or transmitting material containing sexually explicit act in electronic form
IT Act · Cognizable, non-bailable
Publishing or transmitting, in electronic form, any material containing sexually explicit act or conduct.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
First conviction: up to 5 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh. Second/subsequent: up to 7 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
IT Act §67B (2000) — Publishing or transmitting material depicting children in sexually explicit act, etc., in electronic form
IT Act · Cognizable, non-bailable
Publishing, transmitting, browsing, downloading, creating, collecting or facilitating child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online is a strict-liability offence.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
First conviction: up to 5 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh. Second/subsequent: up to 7 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
BNS §318 (2023) — Cheating
BNS · Cognizable, non-bailable
Deceiving a person to fraudulently or dishonestly induce them to deliver property, consent to retention of property, or do/omit anything they otherwise would not — is cheating. Section 318(4) covers cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property (successor to IPC §420).
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
§318(2): up to 3 years or fine or both. §318(3): up to 5 years and fine. §318(4) (dishonest inducement to deliver property): up to 7 years and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
BNS §319 (2023) — Cheating by personation
BNS · Cognizable, bailable
Cheating by pretending to be some other person, or by knowingly substituting one person for another, or representing that a real or imaginary person is a different person.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 5 years, or fine, or both.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
Harassment, Stalking, Threats & Defamation
BNS §74 (2023) — Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty
BNS · Cognizable, non-bailable
Any assault or unwanted physical contact directed at a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty is a serious criminal offence.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment of 1 to 5 years and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §75 (2023) — Sexual harassment
BNS · Cognizable, bailable
Unwelcome physical contact and advances, a demand or request for sexual favours, showing pornography against a woman's will, or making sexually coloured remarks — all are sexual harassment.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Rigorous imprisonment up to 3 years or fine or both for physical contact/demand/pornography; up to 1 year or fine or both for sexually coloured remarks.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §76 (2023) — Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe
BNS · Cognizable, non-bailable
Assaulting or using criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe her, or compelling her to be naked, is a serious offence with mandatory minimum imprisonment.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment of not less than 3 years, extending to 7 years, and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §77 (2023) — Voyeurism
BNS · Cognizable, bailable
Watching, or capturing the image of, a woman engaging in a private act in circumstances where she would normally expect privacy — including sharing such images — is voyeurism.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
First conviction: 1 to 3 years imprisonment and fine. Second/subsequent: 3 to 7 years and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §78 (2023) — Stalking
BNS · Cognizable, bailable
Repeatedly following, contacting or attempting to contact a woman despite her clear disinterest — including monitoring her online activity — is stalking.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
First conviction: imprisonment up to 3 years and fine. Second/subsequent: up to 5 years and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §79 (2023) — Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman
BNS · Cognizable, bailable
Any word uttered, sound made, gesture or object exhibited, or intrusion upon a woman's privacy, intended to insult her modesty, is punishable.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Simple imprisonment up to 3 years, and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §351 (2023) — Criminal intimidation
BNS · Non-cognizable, bailable
Threatening another person with injury to their person, reputation or property — or to someone they care about — with intent to cause alarm or force them to do/refrain from something, is criminal intimidation.
+
BailableNon-cognizable
Punishment
§351(2): up to 2 years, or fine, or both. §351(3): threat of death, grievous hurt, destruction by fire, or imputation of unchastity — up to 7 years, or fine, or both. §351(4): threat by anonymous communication — additional up to 2 years.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
BNS §356 (2023) — Defamation
BNS · Non-cognizable, bailable
Making or publishing any imputation concerning a person, intending to harm — or knowing it will harm — their reputation, is defamation. Truth for public good and other statutory exceptions apply.
+
BailableNon-cognizable
Punishment
Simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both, or community service.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve messages, call logs, CCTV / witnesses
▸File FIR at any police station (BNSS §173 — Zero FIR)
▸Call 112 for immediate danger; 1091 women helpline
Child Protection (POCSO + IT Act §67B)
POCSO §3 (2012) — Penetrative sexual assault (definition)
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Defines penetrative sexual assault against a child (any person below 18) — including penetration by penis, insertion of any object, or manipulation of the child's body to cause penetration.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
See §4 for punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §4 (2012) — Punishment for penetrative sexual assault
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Rigorous imprisonment for not less than 10 years, extendable to life, and fine. Where the victim is below 16 years: not less than 20 years, extendable to life (remainder of natural life), and fine. (POCSO Amendment Act, 2019.)
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Min 10 years to life + fine; if victim <16: min 20 years to life (natural life) + fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §5 (2012) — Aggravated penetrative sexual assault (definition)
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Penetrative sexual assault is aggravated when committed by a person in a position of trust or authority (police officer, public servant, staff of hospital/educational/religious institution), by a relative, on a child <12, gang-assault, causing grievous hurt, etc.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
See §6 for punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §6 (2012) — Punishment for aggravated penetrative sexual assault
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Rigorous imprisonment for not less than 20 years, extendable to life (remainder of natural life), or death, and fine. (POCSO Amendment Act, 2019.)
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Min 20 years to life (natural life) or death + fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §7 (2012) — Sexual assault (definition)
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Whoever, with sexual intent, touches the vagina, penis, anus or breast of the child, or makes the child touch such parts of that person or any other person, or does any other act with sexual intent involving physical contact without penetration.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
See §8 for punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §8 (2012) — Punishment for sexual assault
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Imprisonment of either description for a term not less than 3 years, extendable to 5 years, and fine.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
3 to 5 years imprisonment + fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §11 (2012) — Sexual harassment of a child (definition)
POCSO · Cognizable, bailable
A person is said to commit sexual harassment upon a child when with sexual intent they utter any word / make any sound / show any object or body part / repeatedly follow or watch / threaten to use a real or fabricated depiction of the child in any form of media / entice a child for pornographic purposes.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
See §12 for punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §12 (2012) — Punishment for sexual harassment
POCSO · Cognizable, bailable
Imprisonment of either description up to 3 years, and fine.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Up to 3 years imprisonment + fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §13 (2012) — Use of child for pornographic purposes
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Whoever uses a child in any form of media (including programme or advertisement telecast by television channels or internet or any other electronic form) for the purposes of sexual gratification.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
See §14 for punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §14 (2012) — Punishment for using child for pornographic purposes
POCSO · Cognizable, non-bailable
Imprisonment of not less than 5 years and fine; on second/subsequent conviction, not less than 7 years and fine. (Amended by POCSO Amendment Act, 2019.)
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Min 5 years (1st) / min 7 years (subsequent) + fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §19 (2012) — Reporting of offences (mandatory reporting)
POCSO · Procedural
Any person (including a child) who has apprehension that an offence under POCSO is likely to be committed, or has knowledge that an offence has been committed, SHALL provide such information to the Special Juvenile Police Unit or local police. Failure to report is separately punishable under §21.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Enabling / duty provision — see §21 for failure-to-report punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
POCSO §21 (2012) — Punishment for failure to report or record a case
POCSO · Non-cognizable, bailable
Any person who fails to report the commission of an offence under §19(1) or §20, or who fails to record such offence under §19(2), shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend to 6 months, or fine, or both. For a person in charge of a company or institution, imprisonment may extend to 1 year and fine.
+
BailableNon-cognizable
Punishment
Up to 6 months or fine or both; person in charge of institution: up to 1 year and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
IT Act §67B (2000) — Publishing or transmitting material depicting children in sexually explicit act, etc., in electronic form
IT Act · Cognizable, non-bailable
Publishing, transmitting, browsing, downloading, creating, collecting or facilitating child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online is a strict-liability offence.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
First conviction: up to 5 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh. Second/subsequent: up to 7 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve OTPs, screenshots, URLs, transaction IDs and account details
▸Report at cybercrime.gov.in (24×7 helpline 1930)
▸Call Childline 1098 immediately if the child is in danger
▸Preserve messages/media in a sealed device; do NOT forward
▸Report to Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) or local police under POCSO §19
Police, FIR & Procedural Safeguards
BNSS §35 (2023) — When police may arrest without warrant
BNSS · Procedural
Sets out the circumstances in which a police officer may arrest a person without a warrant, together with safeguards including recording reasons and mandatory review for offences punishable with less than 7 years.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural safeguard — no direct punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Note officer name, badge number, station
▸Ask for arrest memo and grounds of arrest in writing
▸Inform a family member / lawyer (Article 22)
BNSS §43(5) (2023) — Arrest — mode and procedure (safeguards for women)
BNSS · Procedural
Save in exceptional circumstances, no woman shall be arrested after sunset and before sunrise; where such circumstances exist, the woman police officer shall, by making a written report, obtain the prior permission of the Judicial Magistrate.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural safeguard — no direct punishment.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Note officer name, badge number, station
▸Ask for arrest memo and grounds of arrest in writing
▸Inform a family member / lawyer (Article 22)
BNSS §173 (2023) — Information in cognizable cases (FIR / Zero FIR / e-FIR)
BNSS · Procedural
Every information relating to the commission of a cognizable offence, given orally or electronically, shall be reduced to writing and signed by the informant. Enables Zero FIR at any police station, and preliminary inquiry (up to 14 days) for offences punishable with 3–7 years.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural — refusal to register FIR is separately punishable under BNS §199 / IPC §166A.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Note officer name, badge number, station
▸Ask for arrest memo and grounds of arrest in writing
▸Inform a family member / lawyer (Article 22)
BNSS §193 (2023) — Report of police officer on completion of investigation
BNSS · Procedural
On completion of investigation, the officer in charge of the police station shall forward a final report (charge-sheet) to the Magistrate empowered to take cognizance of the offence.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Note officer name, badge number, station
▸Ask for arrest memo and grounds of arrest in writing
▸Inform a family member / lawyer (Article 22)
Electronic Evidence (BSA)
BSA §61 (2023) — Admissibility of electronic or digital record
BSA · Regulatory
The contents of electronic or digital records may be proved in evidence and shall have the same legal effect, validity and enforceability as paper records.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Evidentiary rule.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Store originals safely; keep hash values where possible
▸Prepare a §63 (BSA) certificate for electronic records
BSA §63 (2023) — Special provisions as to evidence relating to electronic record
BSA · Regulatory
Sets out the conditions under which computer-generated electronic records are admissible without further proof of the original — including the requirement of a certificate identifying the record and describing the manner of production.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Evidentiary rule.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Store originals safely; keep hash values where possible
▸Prepare a §63 (BSA) certificate for electronic records
Property / Trespass
BNS §329 (2023) — Criminal trespass and house-trespass
BNS · Non-cognizable, bailable
Entering into or remaining on property in possession of another with intent to commit an offence, intimidate, insult or annoy is criminal trespass. House-trespass is trespass into a building used as a human dwelling or place of worship / property custody.
+
BailableNon-cognizable
Punishment
§329(3) Criminal trespass: imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine up to ₹5,000, or both. §329(4) House-trespass: up to 1 year, or fine up to ₹5,000, or both.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
Workplace, POSH & Corruption
PoSH §3 (2013) — Prevention of sexual harassment at workplace
PoSH · Regulatory
No woman shall be subjected to sexual harassment at any workplace. Circumstances such as implied/explicit promise or threat regarding employment, hostile work environment, or humiliating treatment likely to affect health or safety may amount to sexual harassment.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Redressal via Internal Committee (§4) or Local Committee (§6). Employer non-compliance under §26 attracts fine up to ₹50,000; repeat offence — twice the punishment / cancellation of licence.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
PoSH §9 (2013) — Complaint of sexual harassment
PoSH · Procedural
An aggrieved woman may make, in writing, a complaint of sexual harassment to the Internal Committee (or Local Committee) within 3 months of the incident (extendable by a further 3 months for reasons recorded in writing).
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural. Initiates §11 inquiry and §13 recommendations.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
PoSH §26 (2013) — Penalty for non-compliance by employer
PoSH · Regulatory
Employer who fails to constitute an Internal Committee, does not act on IC recommendations, or contravenes the Act, is punishable with fine up to ₹50,000. Subsequent contravention: twice the punishment and cancellation of licence/registration.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Fine up to ₹50,000; repeat — twice the punishment plus licence cancellation.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
PoCA §7 (1988) — Offence relating to public servant being bribed
PoCA · Cognizable, non-bailable
A public servant who obtains, accepts or attempts to obtain from any person any undue advantage, with the intention to perform or cause improper performance of a public duty, is guilty of the offence.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment 3 to 7 years and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
PoCA §8 (1988) — Offence relating to bribing a public servant
PoCA · Cognizable, non-bailable
Any person who gives or promises to give an undue advantage to another person with intention to induce or reward a public servant for improper performance of a public duty is guilty of the offence. Coerced bribe-giving reported within 7 days to law enforcement is protected.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 7 years, or fine, or both.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
Consumer Complaints & E-Commerce
CPA §2(11) (2019) — Definition of deficiency in service
CPA · Regulatory
Any fault, imperfection, shortcoming or inadequacy in the quality, nature and manner of performance of a service — including deliberate withholding of relevant information — amounts to a deficiency.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Basis for consumer complaint. Reliefs: refund, replacement, compensation, discontinuation of unfair practice.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
CPA §35 (2019) — Manner of filing complaint (District Commission)
CPA · Procedural
A consumer complaint may be filed by the consumer, any recognised consumer association, one or more consumers with same interest, the Central/State Government, or the Central Authority — in person, by post, or electronically via e-Daakhil.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural. Pecuniary limit for District Commission: up to ₹50 lakh (per current CPA rules).
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
CPA §89 (2019) — Punishment for false or misleading advertisement
CPA · Cognizable, bailable
Any manufacturer or service provider who causes a false or misleading advertisement prejudicial to the interest of consumers is punishable, on first conviction, with imprisonment up to 2 years and fine up to ₹10 lakh; subsequent — up to 5 years and ₹50 lakh.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
1st: up to 2 years + ₹10 lakh. Subsequent: up to 5 years + ₹50 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
Domestic Violence & Family
PWDVA §3 (2005) — Definition of domestic violence
PWDVA · Regulatory
Any act, omission or conduct of the respondent that harms or endangers the health, safety, life, limb or well-being of the aggrieved woman — including physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and economic abuse — constitutes domestic violence.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Civil-protection framework. Reliefs include protection orders (§18), residence orders (§19), monetary reliefs (§20), custody (§21) and compensation (§22). Breach of a protection order is punishable under §31.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
PWDVA §18 (2005) — Protection orders
PWDVA · Regulatory
The Magistrate may pass a protection order prohibiting the respondent from committing any act of domestic violence, aiding it, entering the aggrieved woman's workplace/school, communicating with her, alienating shared assets, or causing violence to her dependants.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Civil order. Breach attracts up to 1 year imprisonment or fine up to ₹20,000 or both under §31.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
PWDVA §31 (2005) — Penalty for breach of protection order
PWDVA · Cognizable, non-bailable
Breach of a protection order or interim protection order by the respondent is an offence — imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine up to ₹20,000, or both. The offence is cognizable and non-bailable.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Up to 1 year imprisonment, or ₹20,000 fine, or both. Cognizable and non-bailable.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
Child Welfare (JJ, RTE, Child Labour)
JJ Act §75 (2015) — Punishment for cruelty to child
JJ Act · Cognizable, non-bailable
Whoever, having actual charge of a child, assaults, abandons, abuses, exposes or wilfully neglects the child, causing mental or physical suffering, is punishable. Aggravated form applies where the child becomes physically incapacitated or mentally ill.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine of ₹1 lakh, or both. Aggravated form: 3–10 years and fine up to ₹5 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
JJ Act §82 (2015) — Corporal punishment
JJ Act · Non-cognizable, bailable
Any person in charge of, or employed in, a child-care institution who subjects a child to corporal punishment for the purpose of control or discipline is punishable.
+
BailableNon-cognizable
Punishment
First conviction: fine up to ₹10,000. Subsequent conviction: imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine, or both. Repeat offender may also lose their position.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
RTE §17 (2009) — Prohibition of physical punishment and mental harassment
RTE · Regulatory
No child shall be subjected to physical punishment or mental harassment. Whoever contravenes this provision is liable to disciplinary action under the service rules applicable to them.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Disciplinary action under applicable service rules; criminal action separately under JJ §82 / BNS.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
CLA §3 (1986) — Prohibition of employment of children
CLA · Cognizable, bailable
No child (below 14 years) shall be employed or permitted to work in any occupation or process. Family enterprises and audio-visual entertainment (with safeguards) are limited exceptions.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
Employer: 6 months to 2 years, or ₹20,000–₹50,000, or both (§14). Repeat: 1 to 3 years.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
SC/ST Atrocities & Disability Rights
SC/ST Act §3 (1989) — Punishments for offences of atrocities
SC/ST Act · Cognizable, non-bailable
Enumerates offences (insult, intimidation, humiliation, wrongful occupation, forced labour, sexual offences, social boycott, etc.) committed against a member of a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe by a non-SC/ST person, with enhanced punishments.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Varies per sub-clause — imprisonment 6 months to life + fine; certain aggravated forms attract death.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
SC/ST Act §18 (1989) — Section 438 CrPC / BNSS §482 not to apply
SC/ST Act · Procedural
Anticipatory bail is not available to persons accused of an offence under the SC/ST Act, subject to the safeguards read in by the Supreme Court (Prathvi Raj Chauhan line).
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Procedural bar on anticipatory bail.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
RPwD §92 (2016) — Punishment for offences of atrocities
RPwD · Cognizable, non-bailable
Whoever intentionally insults, intimidates, assaults, sexually exploits, denies food/water, or performs a medical procedure that leads to termination of pregnancy without informed consent of a person with disability, is punishable.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Imprisonment 6 months to 5 years and fine.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
Traffic, Drugs & Trafficking
MV Act §184 (1988) — Driving dangerously
MV Act · Cognizable, bailable
Whoever drives a motor vehicle at a speed or in a manner dangerous to the public, having regard to all the circumstances of the case, is punishable.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
First offence: 6 months to 1 year imprisonment, or ₹1,000–₹5,000 fine, or both. Subsequent (within 3 years): up to 2 years, or ₹10,000, or both.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
MV Act §185 (1988) — Driving by drunken person or by person under influence of drugs
MV Act · Cognizable, bailable
Driving with blood-alcohol exceeding 30 mg per 100 ml, or under the influence of any drug to an extent rendering incapable of proper control, is an offence.
+
BailableCognizable
Punishment
First: up to 6 months and/or ₹10,000. Subsequent (within 3 years): up to 2 years and/or ₹15,000.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
NDPS §20 (1985) — Punishment for contravention in relation to cannabis plant and cannabis
NDPS · Cognizable, non-bailable
Cultivation, production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, import inter-State, export inter-State or use of cannabis is punishable. Punishment depends on whether the quantity is small, intermediate or commercial.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Small quantity: rigorous imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine up to ₹10,000, or both. Commercial quantity: 10–20 years and ₹1–2 lakh.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
NDPS §37 (1985) — Offences to be cognizable and non-bailable
NDPS · Procedural
Offences under the NDPS Act punishable with imprisonment of 5 years or more are cognizable and non-bailable. Bail is granted only if the court is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds to believe the accused is not guilty and is not likely to commit any offence while on bail.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Procedural / bail bar.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
ITPA §5 (1956) — Procuring, inducing or taking person for the sake of prostitution
ITPA · Cognizable, non-bailable
Any person who procures or attempts to procure another (with or without consent) for prostitution, or induces or takes them for that purpose, is punishable. Enhanced punishment where the victim is a child or minor.
+
Non-bailableCognizable
Punishment
Adult: 3 to 7 years and fine up to ₹2,000. Minor: 7 to 14 years. Child: 7 years to life.
India Code verified · India Code · verified 2026-07-08
Recommended actions
▸Preserve documentary and electronic evidence
▸File a written complaint at the appropriate authority
Student, College & Ragging
UGC Regulations on Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions, 2009
Student / Ragging
Prohibits ragging in higher educational institutions; mandates institutional prevention, reporting and disciplinary action, alongside police action where a cognizable offence is disclosed.
+
N/AN/A
Punishment
Suspension, expulsion, cancellation of admission; criminal action under BNS where offence disclosed.
Recommended actions
▸Call anti-ragging helpline 1800-180-5522
▸Preserve chats, videos and witness names
▸File complaint at antiragging.in
Rental, Lockout & Property Possession
Section 6 Specific Relief Act, 1963
Rental / Illegal Dispossession
Person dispossessed of immovable property without consent and otherwise than in due course of law may sue to recover possession within 6 months of dispossession.
No. Officers can only ask to see your documents. Taking the keys of a moving vehicle has been held arbitrary by the Bombay High Court (Ranjit Bhanudas Patil v. State of Maharashtra). Politely ask for the legal basis and start a recording.
Is paying a cash fine on the spot legal?+
Only if the officer is a Notified Officer AND issues an official printed receipt. In every metro all challans are issued via Parivahan / e-challan. Any other cash demand is bribery under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Can my driving license be seized?+
Officers can seize the license under MV Act Sec 206, but suspension is only by a Magistrate. You must be given a written seizure receipt naming the section and the court.
Can the police arrest a woman at night?+
Generally no. BNSS Sec 35 prohibits arrest of a woman after sunset and before sunrise except in exceptional cases — and even then, only by a woman police officer with prior written authorisation from a Magistrate.
Workplace & Employment
What is the POSH Act and when does it apply?+
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 applies to every workplace with 10+ employees, public or private. It mandates an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and a 90-day enquiry timeline.
What if my company has no ICC?+
File directly with the Local Complaints Committee (LCC) at the District Officer / Magistrate's office. The company itself faces a penalty up to ₹50,000 (and licence cancellation on repeat) under POSH Sec 26.
My salary has not been paid for 3 months. What can I do?+
Send a written demand to HR (email). After 7 working days, file a complaint with the Labour Commissioner under the Payment of Wages Act, 1936 + Code on Wages 2019. Wages must be paid by 7th/10th of every month.
Can my boss threaten to fire me for refusing extra work?+
Verbal threats amount to criminal intimidation under BNS §351 (historical: IPC §§503/506). Termination without notice/severance for an Industrial Disputes Act employee is also unfair labour practice — file with the Labour Commissioner within 3 years.
College & Education
Can a college withhold my degree or marksheet?+
No — not arbitrarily. Under UGC Grievance Redressal Regulations 2023, escalate to the Ombudsperson, then UGC's online grievance portal (ugc.ac.in/grievance). High Court writ under Article 226 is also available.
What if a professor threatens to fail me?+
Document everything in writing. Complaint: HOD → Principal → Ombudsperson within 30 days. If money or favours are demanded, it is extortion under BNS §308 (historical: IPC §384) and (for government institutions) an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
What protects me from ragging?+
UGC Anti-Ragging Regulations 2009 + the Supreme Court's directions in Aman Kachroo case. Ragging is a cognizable offence — call the national helpline 1800-180-5522.
Cyber & Privacy
Can the money I lost in an online scam be recovered?+
Yes — if you act within the first hours. Call 1930 and report on cybercrime.gov.in. The bank can freeze the receiver's account quickly under RBI's 'limited liability' framework.
Can I file an FIR at any police station for cyber fraud?+
Yes. Cyber fraud is cognizable and a Zero FIR can be filed at ANY police station under BNSS §173. Refusal is itself an offence under BNS §198 (historical: IPC §166A).
Someone is morphing my photos. What law protects me?+
IT Act §66E (privacy) and §§67/67A (obscene content), together with BNS §75 (sexual harassment, historical: IPC §354A), §77 (voyeurism, historical: IPC §354C), §78 (stalking, historical: IPC §354D) and §79 (insulting modesty, historical: IPC §509). File on cybercrime.gov.in and a Zero FIR at any police station.
Rental & Landlord
Can a landlord lock me out or cut power/water?+
No. Forced eviction without a Rent Authority / Civil Court order is illegal under the Model Tenancy Act, 2021 and amounts to criminal trespass under BNS §329 (historical: IPC §441). Call 100/112 — police MUST restore possession.
How much security deposit is legal?+
Under MTA 2021 — max 2 months for residential, 6 months for commercial. State practices may cap it lower (e.g. Karnataka ≤ 2 months). Anything beyond is unenforceable.
How long can a landlord take to refund my deposit?+
It must be refunded at the time of vacating, after only legitimate, itemised damages. Courts have consistently held arbitrary deductions recoverable in Civil/Rent Court.
Loan, Defamation & Recovery
Can recovery agents call my family?+
No. RBI Fair Practices Code prohibits recovery agents from contacting third parties (except for tracing), abusive language, calls before 8AM / after 7PM, or any public shaming. File with the RBI Banking Ombudsman.
Is defamation a crime in India?+
Yes. Both criminal (BNS §356, historical: IPC §§499/500 — up to 2 years) and civil (damages). Truth is a defence only if also in public interest.
How do I get a defamatory post taken down?+
Send a written takedown notice to the platform's Grievance Officer under IT (Intermediary) Rules 2021. They MUST act within 36 hours of a valid notice (Rule 3(2)).
Facing this right now?
Don't navigate this alone.
Open the VakilSOS Assistant — it will classify your issue, guide you step-by-step, and produce a ready-to-file complaint in minutes.
General legal information for India only — not a substitute for advice from a qualified advocate. Statute references current as of 2024–2025; BNS / BNSS / BSA replace the IPC / CrPC / Evidence Act from 1 July 2024 with broadly equivalent protections.