For a domestic violence case in India, there is no strict fixed list of documents, but having proper evidence helps the court understand the situation clearly. The case is filed under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
1. Basic identity documents
These are required for filing the complaint:
Aadhaar card or any identity proof
Address proof
Passport-size photographs
Details of respondent (husband/partner/family members)
2. Proof of relationship
You must show the domestic relationship, such as:
Marriage certificate (if married)
Proof of live-in relationship (if applicable)
Photographs together, joint records, etc.
3. Evidence of violence or abuse
This is the most important part of the case. It may include:
Medical reports (injuries, treatment records)
Hospital bills or prescriptions
Photographs or videos of injuries or damage
Police complaints or NCR (if already filed)
WhatsApp messages, call recordings, emails showing abuse or threats
4. Financial documents (if maintenance is claimed)
If monetary relief or maintenance is requested:
Bank statements
Income proof of respondent (if available)
Salary slips or employment details
5. Residence proof
To support residence orders:
Rent agreement or property documents
Proof of shared household
Utility bills (electricity, gas, etc.)
6. Witness statements (if available)
Statements from:
Neighbours
Relatives
Friends who have seen or know about the abuse
7. Complaint application
A written complaint describing:
Nature of abuse (physical, emotional, financial, etc.)
Timeline of incidents
Reliefs sought (protection, residence, custody, maintenance)
Important point
Under the law, strict documentary proof is not always mandatory. The court can also rely on oral evidence and circumstances, especially since domestic violence often happens in private.
In summary
To file a domestic violence case, you mainly need identity proof, relationship proof, and any available evidence of abuse, along with a written complaint. Even if evidence is limited, the court can still proceed based on facts and testimony.
Dear Client, In a case of domestic violence under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 the basic documents are ID proof, proof of relationship and any evidence of abuse, such as medical records, messages, photos or Police Complaints that can be used as evidence. Even if full documents are not available, the court can still consider oral statements and circumstances to proceed the case further. I hope this answers your question and for further queries contact us.
Answer By Anik
Dear Client, filing of a domestic violence case according to the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act requires no elaborate paperwork from the beginning. Even a woman who is resourceless can use the law. But the availability of the necessary documentation can make her case stronger.
The primary document here is the application for a grant under section 12 of the DV Act.
It is a long document which contains facts relating to domestic violence faced by the petitioner, as well as what kind of relief has been claimed, for instance, restraining orders, residence orders, and financial compensation.The names and addresses of both the aggrieved person and the respondent should be included in this application.
The supporting documents which could be used to strengthen the case are as follows:
1. Marriage certificate proving the matrimonial relation
2. Identity proof of complainant such as aadhar card
3. Address proof of shared household and residence proof of present place
4. Medical proof of any injuries sustained or undergoing any psychological treatment
5. Photographs taken during the time when any injuries had occurred
6. Copy of any FIR lodged by complainant earlier
7. Any proof of economic abuse/economic dependence from bank accounts or any other financial records
8. Pictures or video footage of incidents if you have any
9. WhatsApp messages, emails, and call record of any threat made using mobile phone
10. Rent agreement or property document proving shared household
11. Birth certificate of any child in case of claiming maintenance and custody of children
12. Income and property proof of respondent proving his financial capacity to claim maintenance.
The lack of some of the papers, however, does not bar filing as the courts have consistently ruled that the sworn declaration made by the complainant alone suffices to file a case and receive interim relief.
I hope this answer helps, if you have any further query kindly do not hesitate to contact us. Thankyou
