Men who face domestic violence will now have the same legal protections as women and children after key amendments expanded the scope of Pakistan’s domestic violence law, marking a significant shift toward gender-neutral safeguards.

Under the amended Domestic Violence Protection Bill, men who are victims of abuse can formally lodge complaints and seek legal redress. Legal action can now also be taken against women in cases involving violence against men.

The law’s stated purpose is to protect women, men, transgender persons, and children from domestic violence without discrimination.

The Act applies to the Islamabad Capital Territory and comes into force immediately. Authorities say the immediate enforcement is intended to ensure timely protection and remedies for victims.

Definition of domestic violence

The amended law clearly defines domestic violence to include physical, emotional, psychological, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse, all of which are now punishable offenses.

It also expands the definition to cover threats of unjustified divorce or a second marriage, false allegations against a person’s character, and unjustified abandonment or neglect of a family member.

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Continuous surveillance (stalking), harassment, and interference in a person’s private life are now explicitly recognized as criminal acts under the law. These provisions aim to address non-physical forms of abuse that often go unreported.

Penalties and compensation

If domestic violence is proven, offenders may face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years. In addition to jail terms, courts are empowered to award compensation of at least Rs20,000 to the affected person.

Legal experts say the compensation provision is designed to offer immediate relief while reinforcing accountability.