By Adv. Mahesh Chopade – Civil & Criminal Lawyer, Paranda

Domestic violence is not just about hitting someone. It is much more than that. When one family member harms, threatens, or troubles another family member—mentally, physically, emotionally, or financially—it is called domestic violence.

Who Can Be Affected?

Domestic violence mostly happens to women, especially wives, daughters-in-law, mothers, or sisters, but it can happen to anyone in a household.

What the Law Says

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) protects women from such abuse. A woman can go to the Magistrate and ask for protection, maintenance, shelter, or compensation.

Types of Domestic Violence

1. Physical Abuse
   
   

   • Hitting, slapping, beating, pushing, etc.
     
     

2. Verbal and Emotional Abuse
   
   

   • Insulting, threatening, abusing in front of others
     
     

   • Saying hurtful things, blaming unnecessarily
     
     

3. Sexual Abuse
   
   

   • Forcing wife to have physical relations without her consent
     
     

4. Economic Abuse
   
   

   • Not giving money for basic needs
     
     

   • Taking away her earnings
     
     

   • Not allowing her to work
     
     

5. Social Isolation
   
   

   • Stopping her from meeting family/friends
     
     

   • Locking her in the house
     
     

What Can a Woman Do?

She can file a complaint under Section 12 of PWDVA and ask for:

• Protection Order – to stop further violence
  
  

• Residence Order – to stay in the shared house
  
  

• Monetary Relief – for daily expenses and maintenance
  
  

• Compensation – for mental and physical harm
  
  

• Custody Orders – for children’s safety
  
  

Where to File?

• Nearest Police Station
  
  

• Protection Officer
  
  

• Family Court or JMFC Court
  
  

• Through a Lawyer
  
  

Final Words by Adv. Mahesh Chopade

"Domestic violence is not just a private matter—it’s a legal issue. No one deserves to suffer in silence. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, speak up and take help. I am here to support and guide you through legal action."

📞 Call for Help or Legal Advice: 7620772677
📍 Office: Paranda Court, Osmanabad District