Police called me to the women’s cell

What usually matters in this situation, and the papers to keep ready before you meet an advocate or free legal aid (call 15100).

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Your situation

Where does it stand? Complaint at a women's cell / counselling

Do these now

Timeline of the marriage, with dates when she lived where
Allegations are tested against dates. Where: Write it out.

Papers to gather

Marriage certificate, wedding photos and invitation
Basic background for either side. Where: Your records.
Names of people who saw incidents or heard demands
Supports the account. Where: Your memory.
Complete chats between spouses and families over the period
Shows context on both sides. Where: Your own phone.

You may also need, depending on your answers

Messages, calls or letters showing dowry/money demands — Direct proof of demands.
Medical records and injury photos — Independent proof.
List of stridhan and gifts with photos and bills — Supports return of stridhan.
Proof of where each accused relative lives and works (rent, utility bills, employer letters) — Courts look closely at general allegations against distant relatives.
Papers in the other cases (divorce, maintenance, DV) — Statements in one case are compared in others.
Any written settlement terms — Needed for quashing on settlement.

What the law says

Cruelty by a husband or his relatives is now an offence under Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (formerly IPC 498A). The Dowry Prohibition Act also applies. Arrest is not automatic; courts have laid down safeguards.

General information, not legal advice.

Saboot will also ask

Which side are you on?
What is alleged or what happened?

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Similar situations

Sources

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

The full guide: Dowry or cruelty case (498A) — filing one, or accused in one · All situations