The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005 was a landmark legislation that recognised, for the first time, the right of every woman to live in a violence-free home. It covers not only physical abuse but also emotional, verbal, sexual and economic abuse.
An aggrieved woman can approach a Protection Officer, a Magistrate, or a recognised service provider. The Act provides for protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief, custody orders and compensation orders. Importantly, it grants the woman a right to reside in the shared household irrespective of her ownership.
At FFYR Human Rights Council, our Women Front works closely with Protection Officers and One Stop Centres across Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand to ensure that survivors receive timely shelter, medical aid and legal representation.
