Question 1

Who can file a complaint under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA)?

Accepted Answer

Any aggrieved woman who is, or has been, in a domestic relationship with the respondent (such as a wife, sister, mother, or live-in partner) can file a complaint alleging physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, or economic abuse.

Question 2

What reliefs can a Magistrate grant under the PWDVA?

Accepted Answer

The Magistrate can pass protection orders preventing further abuse, residence orders ensuring the woman is not evicted from the shared household, monetary reliefs for expenses and losses, custody orders for children, and compensation orders for mental torture.

Question 3

Can male family members be respondents in a DV Act case?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a complaint can be filed against adult male family members. The Supreme Court has also clarified that complaints can be filed against female relatives (like a mother-in-law or sister-in-law) under specific circumstances within the domestic relationship.

Domestic Violence & Cruelty Defense

Overview

Frequently Asked Questions