The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is a landmark piece of legislation that provides comprehensive protection to women experiencing domestic violence in India. It covers a much wider range of abuse than simply physical violence.
What Counts as Domestic Violence Under This Act?
- Physical abuse — Any act causing bodily pain, harm, or endangering health
- Sexual abuse — Any conduct of a sexual nature that humiliates, degrades, or violates dignity
- Verbal & Emotional abuse — Insults, ridicule, threats, name-calling, humiliation
- Economic abuse — Denying financial resources, controlling money, preventing employment
Your Rights Under the Act
- Protection Order — Prevents the abuser from committing further violence or contacting you
- Residence Order — You cannot be evicted from the shared household
- Monetary Relief — Compensation for losses — medical expenses, loss of earnings, property damage
- Custody Order — Temporary custody of your children
- Compensation Order — Damages for emotional distress and mental torture
How to File a Complaint
- Contact a Protection Officer or Legal Services Authority in your area
- File an application (Domestic Incident Report) before the Magistrate
- Court issues a notice to the abuser
- Hearing is conducted — interim orders can be passed on the very first hearing
- Final order passed by the court
If you are in immediate danger, call +91-9665040490 for emergency legal assistance from Legal Keys, Pune. Adv. Shweta Gattewar specialises in domestic violence cases and provides confidential support.
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