I am being cyberstalked by an ex-partner from Kolhapur; can I get protection?
SA Asked by Saurabh Pandey from India
Quick Answer
Cyberstalking is prosecuted under Section 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for sexual harassment and Section 351 for criminal intimidation, read with Section 66D of the IT Act.
Detailed Legal Analysis
Cyberstalking is prosecuted under Section 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for sexual harassment and Section 351 for criminal intimidation, read with Section 66D of the IT Act. File an FIR at the Kolhapur women's police station and seek a protection order under the Domestic Violence Act if the stalker is a former partner.
The Bombay High Court can grant an injunction restraining the stalker from contacting you online or offline and direct the platform to remove the offending content. Maharashtra Rent Control Act 1999 on women's safety may provide additional protections such as a state helpline and a dedicated women's cell in Kolhapur.
Preserve every message, call log and screenshot, and avoid deleting the stalker's accounts so the evidence remains intact. Inform your family and employer in Kolhapur about the stalking to prevent escalation.
Apply for a restraining order even before chargesheeting if you fear imminent harm.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.