Parliament passes Domestic Violence Act 2026 to protect vulnerable groups

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s parliament has passed the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2026, a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at protecting women, men, children, transgender persons, the elderly and other vulnerable individuals from domestic violence. The law comes into force immediately in the Islamabad Capital Territory.

The act defines domestic violence broadly, covering physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and economic abuse that causes fear, harm or distress to a victim. It criminalises verbal abuse, threats of divorce or second marriage, stalking, harassment, forcing a spouse to live with others against their will, and neglect of dependents, including children, elderly, disabled persons and adopted or foster children.

The bill was presented by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry. Under the law, perpetrators may face up to three years in prison and fines of up to Rs100,000, while failure to pay fines can lead to additional imprisonment. Those who aid or abet domestic violence will face the same penalties.

Breach of protection, interim, residence or custody orders may result in up to one year in prison and a fine of Rs100,000.

The law empowers victims to file petitions through Protection Officers, who will assist with legal aid, medical support, shelter arrangements and court procedures. Courts are required to hear petitions within seven days and issue final decisions within 90 days.

Victims are entitled to remain in their shared household or move to a safe place, including government-approved shelter homes. Courts may issue protection orders barring offenders from further abuse, communication with victims or entry into the shared residence. Judges may also order the return of property and award monetary relief for medical expenses, lost income and other damages.

The act establishes Protection Committees and appoints Protection Officers to oversee implementation, maintain records and coordinate with service providers such as shelters and medical facilities. These committees will include representatives from women’s rights bodies, law enforcement agencies, medical professionals and the Ministry of Human Rights.

Read More: CM Murad rejects calls to declare Karachi a federal territory after Gul Plaza fire

The law provides legal protection to officials and service providers acting in good faith and clarifies that its provisions are in addition to existing laws, not a replacement. The federal government has been authorised to frame rules and address any implementation challenges.

Experts say the Domestic Violence Act 2026 marks a major step forward in safeguarding household members, expanding legal remedies for victims and holding perpetrators accountable, including for emotional and economic abuse that was previously overlooked.