ISLAMABAD: In a historic move, Pakistan’s Parliament has passed the Domestic Violence (Prevention & Protection) Act 2026, a law aimed at safeguarding the social and legal rights of wives, children, elderly family members, differently-abled individuals, transgender persons, and co-residents. The law will be implemented in the federal capital, Islamabad.
Under the new legislation, acts such as staring aggressively at a spouse, threatening divorce or second marriage, or forcing a wife to live with other people without consent are now punishable offenses.
Emotional, psychological, or verbal abuse of family members, including swearing or harassment, is also classified as a crime, carrying up to three years in prison and fines of up to PKR 100,000.
The law also criminalizes threats of physical harm, neglect of responsibilities toward family members, violations of privacy, and economic or sexual exploitation. Non-payment of fines may result in an additional six months of imprisonment.
Courts have been directed to hear complaints promptly, with hearings to be conducted within seven days of filing and judgments delivered within 90 days.
Victims will have the right to remain in the shared household, be provided alternative accommodation, or access a shelter home, and abusers may be ordered to stay away.
Additionally, perpetrators may be required to wear GPS trackers to monitor compliance with court orders.
The Act defines domestic violence as physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or economic abuse that instills fear or causes harm to the victim.
Punishments range from a minimum of six months to a maximum of three years, ensuring comprehensive protection for vulnerable family members.
