Stay calm and polite. You have the right to ask, “Why am I being stopped?” You are not required to answer every question, but you should not be aggressive. If they ask for your ID, you are generally required to show it. You are not required to get into a vehicle without a valid reason.

Generally, no — but there are exceptions. A warrantless search is only allowed under specific circumstances, such as if the officer has reason to believe you are carrying a weapon or contraband, or during a lawful arrest. If you are asked to be searched, you can ask for the reason and note the officer’s name and badge number.

You have the right to be told the grounds of arrest, to be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours, to inform a friend or family member, and to consult a lawyer. Do not sign any document without reading it and, if possible, consulting a lawyer first.

You cannot be forced to incriminate yourself. You have the right to remain silent and not answer questions that could make you look guilty. This is your constitutional right under Article 20(3).

No. The police are not allowed to use torture or excessive force to extract a confession. If you are beaten or tortured, you can file a complaint with the police authorities, approach a magistrate, or file a writ petition in the High Court or Supreme Court.

A Zero FIR is an FIR that can be filed at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction. If a crime occurs in another area, you can still file a Zero FIR at the nearest station. The police cannot refuse to register your complaint on the ground of lack of jurisdiction. This is now a codified right under BNSS.

Police have the power to arrest without a warrant for cognizable offences at any time. However, for non-cognizable offences, they require a warrant. If stopped, ask for the officer’s identification and the reason for the stop.

A fraud where callers impersonate police, CBI, customs, or RBI officials on a video call, claiming you are ‘under digital arrest’ for a fake parcel, money-laundering case, or KYC issue. They pressure you to transfer money to ‘verify’ your innocence. There is no such thing as a digital arrest. No agency can arrest, investigate, or collect money over a video call. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately.

Do not panic. No bank will ask you to share OTP, PIN, or password over the phone. Never click on links sent via SMS or WhatsApp. To verify, call your bank directly using the number on the back of your debit card. Never call the number the scammer gives you.

Act immediately. Call 1930 (National Cybercrime Helpline) within the first 24 hours. Contact your bank to request a freeze on the beneficiary account. File a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in. The earlier you act, the higher the chance of recovering the money.

A scammer convinces your mobile operator to issue a new SIM card in your name, taking control of your phone number and OTPs. To protect yourself, never share your personal details with unknown callers, use a strong password for your mobile operator account, and if you lose mobile network suddenly, contact your operator immediately.

Report it on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in). You can also report phishing emails and fake investment or loan platforms. If you are not a victim, you can still report it as a ‘suspicious’ complaint.

A scammer tricks you into merging an incoming call with your bank’s automated line to intercept the OTP read aloud during the call. Never merge an unknown call with a banking call. If you are on a call with your bank, hang up and call them back.

It is a government portal (sancharsaathi.gov.in) that lets you report and block lost or stolen phones. It also lets you check how many mobile connections are registered in your name — so you can spot if someone has fraudulently taken a SIM on your identity.

Read it thoroughly. Ensure it clearly states the monthly rent, security deposit amount, lease duration, who pays maintenance charges, and the notice period for termination. Check if the agreement is registered — for leases of 12 months or more, registration is required under the Registration Act.

There is no specific law setting a limit on security deposit. However, the general practice is 2-3 months’ rent in most cities. The deposit must be returned within a reasonable time (often 30-45 days) after you vacate, subject to deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Only if the lease agreement allows it. The rent increase is usually specified in the agreement, often with an annual increment clause. The landlord cannot increase rent mid-term without a valid reason unless the agreement allows it.

Send a formal legal notice demanding the return of the deposit. If the landlord does not respond, you can file a complaint in the civil court or even approach a consumer forum if the matter involves deficiency of service. The process can be time-consuming, so ensure you have all documentation ready.

No. If the builder delays possession, you have the right to file a complaint with the state RERA authority. You can claim compensation for the delay and/or a refund with interest. RERA tribunals are faster than regular courts.

Hire a lawyer to conduct a title search. Obtain an Encumbrance Certificate from the sub-registrar’s office to check if the property is free from loans or legal disputes. Also, check the property tax and utility bills to ensure there are no outstanding dues.

A lease gives the tenant legal rights over the property (and is more difficult for the landlord to terminate), while a leave and licence grants permission to occupy the property on a short-term basis, with fewer rights. Most rental agreements in cities are drafted as ‘leave and licence’ agreements to give the landlord more flexibility.

Generally no. Employers must follow the termination process outlined in your contract and the applicable labor laws. In most cases, you are entitled to a notice period (or pay in lieu of notice) and a valid reason. If termination is for misconduct, a fair disciplinary inquiry must be conducted.

Probation is a trial period (typically 3-6 months, but can be longer). During probation, employers can terminate you with shorter notice. However, you are still entitled to your salary, statutory benefits (PF, ESI if applicable), and cannot be discriminated against on the basis of caste, religion, gender, or disability.

No. Forcing an employee to resign (constructive dismissal) is illegal. If your employer creates a hostile environment to push you out, you can treat it as an unfair termination and challenge it before the labour commissioner or an industrial tribunal.

Your employer must settle your full and final dues within a reasonable time — generally aligned with the next payroll cycle. This includes your pending salary, leave encashment, gratuity (if eligible), and other reimbursements. If the employer delays, you can send a legal notice and approach the labour commissioner.

Yes. The Code on Social Security, 2020 formally defines ‘gig worker’ and ‘platform worker’ and extends certain social security benefits to them. However, implementation is still being rolled out state-by-state. You can register with the platform and keep records of your work and earnings.

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (POSH) applies to every workplace with 10 or more employees. It requires an Internal Committee (IC) to hear sexual harassment complaints. You have the right to file a complaint with the IC, and the employer cannot retaliate against you for doing so.

You can withdraw your EPF balance after two months of unemployment. You can also withdraw partially for specific purposes like medical emergencies, home purchase, or education, even while employed, subject to EPFO rules. Always update your UAN and KYC details.

Do not throw away the product, packaging, or the invoice. Take photos and videos of the defect. Immediately contact the seller or e-commerce platform and register a complaint. Most platforms have a grievance process. Save all communication.

Call 1915 (toll-free) or visit consumerhelpline.gov.in. You can register your complaint online by providing the product details, invoice, and the nature of the complaint. The helpline will try to mediate between you and the seller. If not resolved, you can escalate to a formal consumer forum.

You can file a complaint online through the e-Daakhil portal (edaakhil.nic.in). The forum depends on the claim amount: District Commission (up to ₹1 crore), State Commission (₹1 crore–₹10 crore), or National Commission (above ₹10 crore). You do not need a lawyer, but you may choose to hire one.

Yes, generally two years from the date of the cause of action. The forum can condone the delay if you show sufficient reason. It is best to file as soon as possible.

Both can be held liable. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 has specific ‘product liability’ provisions that hold manufacturers, sellers, and service providers accountable. You can sue all of them collectively.

Yes. Under the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, the platform is required to disclose seller details and has a grievance redressal mechanism. If the seller is unresponsive, you can complain against the platform itself for failing to ensure a fair transaction.

False or misleading advertising, making false claims about a product’s quality or price, bait advertising, and non-disclosure of important information are all considered unfair trade practices. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) can act against such practices.

You can call 181 (Women Helpline) or 112 (National Emergency). You can also approach a Protection Officer under the DV Act, or go to the nearest police station. The law allows you to get a protection order against the abuser, and the court can also pass a residence order, allowing you to stay in your home.

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is a civil law that provides for protection orders, monetary relief, and residence rights for women facing physical, sexual, verbal, or economic abuse. It applies even if you are not married and also protects women in live-in relationships.

The DV Act is a civil law that provides faster remedies like protection orders and monetary relief. A criminal case under Section 85 BNS is a criminal offence that can lead to arrest and prosecution of the abuser. You can use both.

You have the right to file a complaint with the Internal Committee (IC) under the POSH Act. The employer cannot fire or demote you for filing a complaint. If the IC fails to act, you can approach the Local Committee or file a police complaint. You also have the right to a safe work environment.

Dowry is illegal. Giving, taking, or demanding dowry is a criminal offence under the Dowry Prohibition Act. You can approach the police and file an FIR. You can also approach a women’s helpline or an NGO for support.

The NCW is a statutory body that works to protect and promote the rights of women in India. You can file a complaint with the NCW if you are facing any form of harassment, discrimination, or injustice. They can take suo-motu cognizance and even hold hearings.

The Domestic Violence Act is specifically designed to protect women. Men who face cruelty or harassment have to approach the police under other provisions such as BNS Section 85 (cruelty), Section 115 (criminal intimidation), or file matrimonial proceedings.

You can file a maintenance claim under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. The process is faster and cheaper than a normal civil suit. You do not need a lawyer to file the claim. The Tribunal can order your children to pay a monthly maintenance amount.

You need to file an application before the Maintenance Tribunal in your district. The tribunal will summon your children and hear both sides. The Act mandates that the proceedings be completed within 90 days. The tribunal can also declare any transfer of property to the child void if the child fails to take care of you.

Yes. Many states have amended the Senior Citizens Act to allow the Tribunal to declare such transfers void if the child fails to provide maintenance and care. The Supreme Court has also supported this interpretation. You can approach the Tribunal to cancel the transfer.

Always consult a lawyer before signing any property-related document. Do not sign blank papers. Register your property documents. If you feel pressure from a relative to transfer property, approach the police or the local District Magistrate. You can also register a complaint with the Elder Line at 14567.

14567 is the national toll-free Elder Line helpline. You can call for information, guidance, or emergency assistance. They can also connect you with local support services, including police and legal aid.

Many courts and tribunals give priority to cases involving senior citizens. Several states have designated fast-track courts for elder-related matters. You can request the court for an early hearing if you are a senior citizen.

You must send a legal notice to the person who issued the cheque within 30 days of receiving the bank’s dishonour memo. Give them 15 days to pay. If they do not pay, you can file a criminal complaint under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. The punishment is up to two years in jail, a fine, or both.

Yes, Section 138 applies to post-dated cheques as well, as long as they were issued in discharge of a legally enforceable debt or liability. The same process applies.

Courts have held that Section 138 can still apply if the mismatch effectively amounts to a refusal to honour the cheque. However, this is a litigated area, and the specific facts matter. You may need to file a complaint and let the court decide.

Yes. A civil recovery suit is a separate, parallel option. You can file a civil suit for the recovery of the debt. Many disputes are resolved through mediation or settlement rather than a full criminal trial.

The Reserve Bank of India has strict guidelines on loan recovery. Recovery agents cannot use abusive language, threaten you, or intimidate you. They cannot contact you at odd hours (before 7 am or after 7 pm) or visit your workplace without your permission. If you feel harassed, file a complaint with the bank’s grievance officer, and if not resolved, approach the RBI’s Ombudsman.

First, check your account statement and contact the bank’s customer care. If the issue is not resolved, write a complaint to the bank’s grievance officer. If still unresolved, you can approach the Banking Ombudsman. The Banking Ombudsman scheme is a free and faster process for resolving complaints against banks.

The RTI Act, 2005 gives you the right to ask for information from any public authority (government department). You can ask for copies of documents, decisions, files, and more. It is a powerful tool for transparency and accountability.

You can file online through rtionline.gov.in (for central government departments) or offline by writing to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned department. The fee is usually ₹10. You do not need to give any reason for seeking the information.

The PIO must respond within 30 days. If you do not get a response, you can file a First Appeal with the departmental Appellate Authority. If still not resolved, you can file a Second Appeal with the State or Central Information Commission.

Information affecting national security, ongoing investigations, cabinet papers before a decision, and personal information that has no public interest justification are exempt under Section 8 of the Act.

You can file an RTI for your own personal information, such as your service record, pension file, or exam answer sheets. However, the RTI is not meant to be used for seeking opinions, advice, or for asking the government to take action.

Yes. Applicants who are Below Poverty Line (BPL) are exempt from the application fee. You need to submit proof of BPL status. Women and government officials are not exempt from the fee, despite common misconceptions.