Taking a clear and strict stand against domestic violence and abuse, the Parliament has passed a law that will provide legal protection to every member of the family.
Under this new law, now abusing, harassing, intimidating or mentally pressuring a wife, child or any person living in the house will be considered an intolerable crime, which can be punished with both imprisonment and fine.
According to the authorities, the aim of this measure is to make the home environment safe and ensure the protection of the fundamental rights of women, children and vulnerable people.
According to the bill, not only physical violence but also emotional, psychological, sexual and economic abuse will be punishable. Keeping someone in constant fear or depriving them of their autonomy will also come under the purview of the law.
Even threatening a wife with divorce or remarriage or forcing her to live with people she does not agree with will also be a punishable offense.
Those involved in such crimes can be imprisoned for a minimum of six months and a maximum of three years. A heavy fine can also be imposed.
The law also includes a provision that the victim cannot be evicted from their home, but if the situation worsens, the government will provide shelter homes or alternative accommodation.
To expedite the delivery of justice to the victim, the court has been directed to start the hearing of the case within a week and pronounce the verdict within three months.
In serious cases, the accused will be ordered to stay away from the victim and, if necessary, a GPS tracking device can also be installed to monitor his movements.
Social activists and women’s rights organizations have welcomed the law, saying that it will give a voice to victims of domestic violence and bring about positive change in society.
The law sends a clear message that domestic violence is no longer a private matter but a legal crime.