Where can Domestic Violence Happen?

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[Trigger Warning: The following content contains information on domestic violence which some readers may find disturbing.]

An act of domestic violence can happen anywhere. It need not always be confined to the house you are living in.(( Bipin v. Meera D.S. 2017 (1) RCR (Criminal) 479.)) Domestic violence can take place anywhere, like your place of employment or education, your child’s school, the marketplace, etc(( Section 18, The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.)).

You can file a complaint and with the help of a lawyer, go to Court to file a case against your harasser, regardless of where the domestic violence has happened.

Some states provide handbooks for ASHA workers where you can find more information on forms on violence and how to file a complaint to seek protection against domestic violence. For example, see this handbook published for ASHA in Chattisgarh, Delhi, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

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Who can seek Protection against Domestic Violence?

Any woman can file a complaint and seek protection against domestic violence under the law, for herself and her child/children. The religion of the woman does not matter.

What is the Time Limit to Complain against Domestic Violence?

There is no specific time limit for filing a complaint against domestic violence, but you must be able to prove that you were in a domestic relationship with the harasser at the time the violence took place.

How can you get Immediate Protection for Domestic Violence?

To seek immediate protection from domestic violence, you should file an application with the Court with the help of a Protection Officer or a lawyer.

What is Counseling under Domestic Violence law?

Counseling refers to the provision of professional guidance by a counselor, who will help you and your harasser settle the matter of the domestic violence you have faced, furnish a guarantee that violence will not repeat, and come up with the best possible solution to the problem of domestic violence.

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence refers to violent or abusive behavior in a household that causes harm and may put the health and safety of a woman or any child under her custody in danger.

What is a Shared Household ?

You live in a shared household with your harasser if you lived with the harasser, have a domestic relationship with the harasser and have/do not have a legal share in the house.