The issue of domestic violence and abuse is becoming very serious in Karachi Pakistan. Every day we hear a new case of family domestic violence where a husband physically assaulted his wife and the wife has been injured badly seeking justice. There are many different legal frameworks and law firms like Karachi Family Lawyers that are working towards providing justice to the one who is suffering violence at the hands of her husband. Domestic violence in Karachi can be of any kind including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and economic abuse. All these forms of abuse are wrong, and there are laws to protect the victim in case the victim is suffering from any of these kinds. The legal system in Pakistan offers protection through multiple laws and policies, though challenges remain in terms of enforcement and awareness.
Legal Frameworks and Protections Against Domestic Violence in Pakistan
Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013
This act extensively defines domestic violence and includes all kinds of abuse including physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and even economic abuse. This law was basically established to protect domestic violence victims in the vicinity of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). under this act the victim will have the following rights:
- The victims have the right to apply for protection which will be able to restrict the abuser from further actions and will also protect the victim in future from such unfortunate events.
- The victims can file for the relocation of the abuser if the victim does not feel safe around the abuser and the court can also order the abuser to provide separate accommodation for the sufferer.
- The victim has the right to get monetary relief from the abuser for the damage caused
The Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act, 2016
The main goal of this act was to establish Violence Against Women Centres (VAWC) and shelter homes in Punjab. These centres provide medical, psychological, and legal support to survivors. These centres are now regarded as safe places for woman who have been subjected to abuse of any kind at the hands of their partner. They also help women file the case and attend the hearings.
The Sindh Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013
This law also provides protection and residence to domestic violence victims and provides them with monetary relief. It also establishes protection committees for victims to seek help and support.
Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2004
This amendment introduced Section 498-A into the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). the aim was to criminalise forced marriage and the abuse of women. However the act does not specifically cater to domestic violence, but it is an addition to the social security of women in Pakistan. Moreover, the law recognises domestic abuse as a crime and says that this kind of crime should be properly punished.
The Honour Crimes Act, 2016
This act is a very crucial one as it deals with honour-based violence on women in Pakistan. The act aims to punish those who commit honour killings or honour-based violence.
Rights and Protections for Victims
- Domestic violence victims have the right to report the abuse to the nearest police station as abuse is regarded as a crime.
- They are eligible for getting help through NGOs and government facilities which will help them in filing the case and living in peace after the incident of abuse.
- Victims are entitled to have their identities protected during legal proceedings to avoid social stigma and retaliation.
- Victims can file for protection and restraining orders
In conclusion, domestic violence is a growing concern in Pakistan, but the government and the authorities are working towards the betterment of those who have suffered from abuse and are focused on punishing the abusers so that people do not commit such crimes in future.