Complaints to the West Bengal Women's Commission from Asansol

The West Bengal Commission for Women is a statutory body that inquires into complaints of harassment, domestic violence, dowry demands, denial of maintenance and police inaction on women's complaints. It is not a court and cannot award damages, but it can summon officials, recommend action and monitor police and administrative response.

Key facts at a glance

Step-by-step procedure

1. Step 1: Record the incidents in writing with dates, places and the persons involved.
2. Step 2: File a police complaint first where an offence is involved and keep the acknowledgement.
3. Step 3: File the complaint before the West Bengal Commission for Women online or by post with the evidence.
4. Step 4: Attend the hearing; the Commission may call the husband, in-laws or the police officer concerned.
5. Step 5: Use the Commission's recommendation to press the police or the protection officer for action.
6. Step 6: Where a protection order or maintenance is needed, file separately before the magistrate under the DV Act.

Documents you need

• Written complaint with names, dates and incidents
• Marriage certificate or proof of relationship
• Evidence of harassment — messages, medical records, photographs
• Copy of the police complaint and its acknowledgement
• Income and maintenance details for maintenance claims
• Identity and address proof
• Affidavit where the Commission directs

Common mistakes to avoid

• Expecting the Commission to grant a divorce or award maintenance — only courts can do that.
• Filing only with the Commission and not with the police, which delays any criminal action.
• Not preserving messages, call records and medical evidence.
• Withdrawing the complaint under family pressure without recording the reason.

Where to go in Asansol

Women in Asansol, Kulti, Raniganj and Jamuria can approach the district women's cell and the One Stop Centre in Asansol for immediate support, counselling and legal aid, in addition to the state Commission.

Frequently asked questions

What complaints can I file with the West Bengal Women's Commission from Asansol?

Complaints of domestic violence, dowry harassment, workplace sexual harassment, denial of maintenance, harassment by in-laws, police inaction and denial of rights or entitlements to women.

Can the Women's Commission order my husband to pay maintenance?

No. The Commission can recommend and facilitate, but maintenance orders are passed by the judicial magistrate under Section 125 CrPC or the BNSS, or under the Domestic Violence Act.

Is there a fee to complain to the WB Women's Commission?

No. Filing a complaint with the West Bengal Commission for Women is free. Complaints can be submitted online or by post with supporting documents.

What can I do if the police refuse to register my complaint in Asansol?

File a written complaint with the Superintendent of Police, then approach the Women's Commission and the magistrate under Section 175(3) BNSS or the relevant provision, seeking a direction to register the FIR.