Introduction
With the rise of social media and digital platforms, revenge porn has become a serious cyber crime in India. Sharing private or intimate images/videos without consent causes mental trauma, social stigma, and reputational harm to victims.
This guide explains revenge porn laws in India, legal rights of victims, FIR procedure, applicable IPC & IT Act sections, and immediate legal remedies.
What Is Revenge Porn?
Revenge porn refers to:
Sharing intimate images or videos
Without the consent of the person
With intent to harass, threaten, or humiliate
It often occurs after:
Relationship breakups
Refusal to continue a relationship
Personal disputes or blackmail
Revenge porn is a criminal offence in India.
Is Revenge Porn Illegal in India?
Yes. Although there is no separate law named “Revenge Porn Act,” it is punishable under multiple provisions of IPC and IT Act.
Applicable Laws for Revenge Porn in India
🔹 Information Technology Act, 2000
Section 66E – Violation of privacy
Section 67 – Publishing obscene content
Section 67A – Publishing sexually explicit content
🔹 Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Section 354C – Voyeurism
Section 354A – Sexual harassment
Section 499 & 500 – Defamation
Section 507 – Criminal intimidation (anonymous threats)
Section 509 – Insulting modesty of a woman
Punishment for Revenge Porn in India
Depending on sections applied:
Imprisonment up to 7 years
Fine
Both imprisonment and fine
Courts treat revenge porn as a serious violation of dignity and privacy.
Legal Rights of Revenge Porn Victims
Victims have the right to:
File FIR immediately
Seek content removal
Demand police protection
Approach court for injunction
Claim compensation
Police cannot refuse to register FIR in such cases.
Step-by-Step Legal Procedure for Victims
Step 1: Preserve Evidence
Take screenshots
Save URLs, messages, emails
Record timestamps
⚠️ Do not edit or forward content.
Step 2: File FIR or Cyber Complaint
Visit nearest police station
Cyber Crime Police Station
Online cybercrime portal
For women victims, FIR can be registered by a woman police officer.
Step 3: Demand Immediate Content Takedown
Police and courts can:
Direct social media platforms
Order removal under IT Act
Block further circulation
Step 4: Approach Court (If Needed)
Injunction orders
Protection orders
Compensation claims
What If Police Refuse to Act?
Legal remedies include:
Complaint to SP/DCP
Magistrate application under CrPC / BNSS
Writ petition before High Court
Police inaction is illegal.
Can Men Be Victims of Revenge Porn?
Yes. Laws apply to both men and women. However, some IPC sections specifically protect women.
Is Consent to Record = Consent to Share?
❌ Absolutely NO.
Even if recording was consensual, sharing without consent is illegal.
Why Legal Assistance Is Important
A lawyer helps:
Correct FIR drafting
Fast takedown of content
Court protection
Prevent misuse of counter-cases
Conclusion
Revenge porn is a serious criminal offence in India. Victims are protected by strong cyber and criminal laws. Acting quickly, preserving evidence, and taking proper legal steps can stop further harm and bring offenders to justice.
FAQs
Q1. Is revenge porn a crime in India?
Yes, punishable under IPC and IT Act.
Q2. Can police refuse FIR for revenge porn?
No, refusal is illegal.
Q3. Can content be removed quickly?
Yes, through police and court orders.
Q4. Can victims get compensation?
Yes, courts can award compensation.