How Indian Laws Can Protect You From Stalking

With increasing cases of sexual assault, rape, and sexual harassment, it's time to talk about another real threat i.e 'Stalking'. According to National Crime Records Bureau statistics, three in six women in India have experienced stalking at least once in their lifetime. It also showcased that cases of stalking in the capital doubled from 541 in 2014 to 1,124 in 2015.

Furthermore, as per the data released by Minister of State for Home, Hansraj Ahir, in Lok Sabha, stalking cases showed a consistent rise in the last three years. 7,132 cases in 2016, 6,266 cases in 2015 and 4,699 cases in 2014, were registered in India.

So, is there a way to save yourselves from stalking? Read below for more information and how law comes to your rescue.

1. Cut off all communication with the suspected stalker

If you are being stalked by a friend or an ex-lover, clearly tell him that you want their behavior to cease and cut all ties with him. Do not answer his calls or texts, block him from social media and avoid any situation in which you may see them. Responding to them will only increase their desire to follow you.

2. Stay Alert

Don't share any information about yourself with a complete stranger. Only share your personal information with your trusted friends and family. Also, stay alert and sharp while going out.

3. Tell your family

Informing your family about a stalker is vital.Not only can they help you out, but if anything were to happen to you, these people would be able to tell authorities exactly where to look.

4.Keep all documentation of stalking

If someone is sending you threats via texts or calls, make sure to save them, as these can be used as evidence if you are planning to take legal action.

5. Avoid travelling alone

Ask a friend or family member to go with you to the store or to run errands. If you enjoy outdoor activity and exercise, get a friend to exercise with you. Also, avoid taking the same route in an effort to throw a stalker off. If you're living alone, move in with your partner or family.

6. Carry something to defend yourself

Always carry something to defend yourself. You can carry pepper spray, chilli powder, lemon juice, stun guns, or take self-defense classes.

7. File a police complaint

If you sense you're in danger, don't even waste a second and contact the police. They can help you out and will catch the stalker as soon as possible.

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Indian Laws

1. After Nirbhaya's gang rape case, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 amended the Indian Penal Code and inserted ‘stalking’ as a crime under Section 354D(1)(1). Under this provision, stalking is defined as ‘an act where any man repeatedly follows and contacts a woman so as to foster personal interaction despite a clear indication of interest by such woman.’
2. The government also recognized cyberstalking as a crime. According to IPC Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, if a person uses his computer (or communication device) to send any offensive text or picture, he can be punished with imprisonment for up to 3 years and penalty.
3. If a stalker invades your privacy, or threatens you, or sends you obscene images,then he can be booked under Section 509 of the IPC for outraging the modesty of a woman and also under the Information Technology Act, 2000.

If you are being stalked in Delhi, call 1096. For women in the rest of India, the NCW can be contacted by calling 011-23219750.

Be safe and stay alert.