10 things we found about technology-facilitated gender-based violence in India

1. TFGBV takes many forms.

Survivors reported doxing, online stalking, harassment, non-consensual distribution of intimate images, deepfakes, and morphing of images.

2. Online abuse has offline consequences.

Violence in digital spaces often spills over into survivors’ daily lives, affecting safety, mental health, and mobility.

3. Social stigma silences survivors.

Patriarchal norms and fear of reputational damage discourage survivors from reporting abuse.

4. Marginalised women are disproportionately targeted.

Dalit women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women journalists face layered, intersectional abuse.

5. Legal frameworks are outdated.

The repeal of Section 66A of the IT Act left critical gaps, and existing laws don’t cover emerging forms of digital violence such as AI-generated deepfakes.

6. Police responses are inconsistent.

Survivors frequently encounter apathy, ignorance, and victim-blaming when approaching law enforcement. FIRs are often refused or delayed.

7. Court processes are retraumatising.

Survivors describe lengthy, insensitive procedures that place the burden of proof on them while offering little emotional or psychological support.

8. Platforms lack accountability.

Tech companies are slow to remove harmful content, leaving survivors exposed to prolonged harm.

9. Survivors want speed and healing.

Many define justice as fast, punitive action, but also emphasise the need for restorative support and dignity in recovery.

10. Systemic reform is urgent.

Survivors, lawyers, and activists call for comprehensive legislation, stronger accountability for platforms, gender-sensitive policing, and survivor-centred justice.