Skip to main content

Peace Legal Information: Making Law Simple for Every Citizen

Peace Legal Information: Making Law Simple for Every Citizen

Table of Contents Introduction — purpose & scope Why legal awareness matters Rights & Duties — equal and reciprocal Role of Police — how to cooperate Everyday laws to keep handy How to use the law to protect yourself Conclusion Introduction — purpose & scope Peace4.in brings plain-English legal information to every person living in or visiting India. This pinned page is a gateway: it explains the site's purpose, how to navigate topic clusters, and how the law can be used to prevent harm and resolve disputes through recognised legal channels. We focus only on Indian legal context and practical steps. Our aim is to increase legal literacy, encourage lawful behaviour, and support peaceful, constructive resolution of conflicts. ↑ Back to top Why legal awareness matters Legal knowledge empowers you to avoid common mistakes, make informed decisions, and access remed...

Protection from Abuse: Your Legal Rights Under the Domestic Violence Act

Protection from Abuse: Your Legal Rights Under the Domestic Violence Act

Detailed information related to the topic Protection from Abuse: Your Legal Rights Under the Domestic Violence Act

What is the Domestic Violence Act?

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is a key legislation in India that provides immediate and long-term remedies to women facing physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, or economic abuse within domestic relationships.

Who is Protected Under the Act?

Any woman who is or has been in a domestic relationship — including wives, daughters-in-law, sisters, mothers, or live-in partners — can seek protection under this Act. It covers not only the husband but also in-laws and other relatives in the shared household.

Types of Abuse Recognized by Law

  • Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, beating, or any form of physical harm.
  • Emotional/Verbal Abuse: Humiliation, threats, name-calling, or mental torture.
  • Sexual Abuse: Forced sexual acts or conduct against the woman's will.
  • Economic Abuse: Denial of money, food, basic needs, or controlling access to finances.

How to File a Domestic Violence Complaint

You can file a complaint through:

  • The nearest Protection Officer
  • Police station (FIR or DIR)
  • Magistrate court under Section 12 of the DV Act

Complaints can be filed by the woman herself or by someone on her behalf.

Once a complaint is filed, the court can issue the following:

  • Protection Order: Stops the abuser from committing any further act of violence.
  • Residence Order: Ensures the woman can stay in the shared household.
  • Monetary Relief: Financial compensation for expenses and losses.
  • Custody Order: Temporary custody of children, if needed.
  • Compensation Order: Damages for mental and physical suffering.

What to Expect After Filing

After filing, the Magistrate usually hears the case within 3 working days. A Domestic Incident Report (DIR) may be submitted by the Protection Officer. Legal aid and NGOs can assist during this process.

Back to top