Pakistan’s Parliament has passed the Domestic Violence and Protection Act 2025 during a joint session, strengthening legal action against domestic abuse and expanding protection for victims.
The bill was presented by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sharmila Faruqi and introduces strict penalties, fast-track court procedures, and enforceable protection orders.
This landmark legislation aims to reduce domestic violence cases in Pakistan by recognizing multiple forms of abuse and ensuring immediate legal relief for victims.
Expanded Definition of Domestic Violence Under New Law
The Act provides a comprehensive definition of domestic violence, covering physical, emotional, psychological, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse. Physical violence includes assault and offences already listed in the Pakistan Penal Code, while psychological abuse includes humiliation, insults, intimidation, and fear-inducing behavior.
Notably, the law also criminalizes threats of unjustified divorce or second marriage, recognizing them as tools of coercion and mental abuse. Verbal threats, degrading language, and repeated intimidation are also punishable offences.
False Accusations, Surveillance, and Forced Living Arrangements Criminalized
The new law classifies false allegations about a woman’s or household member’s character as domestic abuse. Intentionally abandoning or neglecting a victim, continuous surveillance, harassment, and interference in private life are also criminal acts under the Act.
Also read: National assembly passes bill against domestic violence
Forcing a person to live with someone other than their lawful spouse is now a punishable offence. Any sexual act that harms dignity or self-respect is categorized as sexual violence, while controlling finances or denying household expenses qualifies as economic abuse.
Punishments, Prison Terms, and Compensation for Victims
If domestic violence is proven in court, offenders may face six months to three years of imprisonment along with mandatory compensation of at least Rs. 20,000 to the victim. Failure to pay compensation can lead to an additional three months in jail.
Anyone who aids, abets, or facilitates domestic abuse will be treated as equally responsible and face the same legal consequences as the main offender.
Fast-Track Court Hearings and Protection Orders
The Act introduces strict timelines to ensure speedy justice. Victims or protection officers can file petitions in the area where the victim resides or where the shared residence is located. Courts must schedule the first hearing within seven days and may issue interim protection orders within the same timeframe.
All domestic violence cases must be decided within 90 days, significantly reducing legal delays that often discourage victims from seeking justice.
Contact Bans, Eviction Orders, and Police Protection
Courts may prohibit the accused from contacting the victim through phone calls, text messages, social media, or any digital platform. The accused may also be ordered to maintain a physical distance from the victim.
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In serious cases, courts can order the accused to vacate the shared residence, submit surety bonds for safety, and direct police to provide immediate protection to victims and children.
Housing Rights and Shelter Homes for Victims
Under the Domestic Violence and Protection Act 2025, victims have the legal right to stay in the shared home, even if they are not the legal owners of the property. The accused cannot evict them from the residence.
If living in the shared home is unsafe, victims may move to government-approved shelter homes while remaining under court protection.
Financial Support, Maintenance, and Salary Deductions
Courts may order the accused to provide financial assistance and maintenance to victims and their children. Compensation may also be awarded for any property damage caused during abuse.
If payments are not made voluntarily, courts can instruct employers or debtors to deduct the amount directly from salaries or outstanding dues, ensuring enforcement of financial orders.
Child Custody and Guardianship Under Domestic Violence Cases
The Act allows courts to grant temporary custody of children or vulnerable adults during proceedings. Child custody matters will follow the Guardians and Wards Act, ensuring that the child’s best interests remain the priority.
Also read: Domestic laws in conflict with International Human Rights Laws: A comparative analysis
For adult victims, custody or guardianship decisions will be made according to the victim’s own wishes.
Duration of Court Orders and Penalties for Violations
Protection, residence, and interim orders remain in effect until the victim requests withdrawal or the court modifies them due to changed circumstances. Violating a protection order is a serious offence and may result in up to one year of imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs. 100,000, payable directly to the victim.
Bail, Settlement, and Right to Appeal
Offences under the Act are bailable and compoundable, allowing for legal settlement under court supervision. The law also guarantees the right to appeal, which must be filed in a sessions court within 30 days of the decision.
Session courts are required to decide appeals within 60 days, ensuring that cases do not remain pending for long periods.
