The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2026 marks a significant step forward in Pakistan’s fight against domestic abuse. The law, passed in the National Assembly in March 2026, defines and criminalises a wide range of violent and coercive acts within homes, marriage, and cohabitation. It implements comprehensive protective measures, penalises abusers, and establishes a dedicated enforcement and support system for victims.
Key Provisions and Their Impact
- Broad Definition of Abuse: Physical force, physical injury, emotional harm, sexual assault, harassment, intimidation, stalking, and financial control are all covered.
- Preventive Measures: Immediate protection orders, restraining orders, and evacuation plans for victims.
- Support Infrastructure: The law mandates the creation of 24/7 helplines, counselling centres, medical facilities, and legal aid offices across all provinces.
- Accountable Enforcement: Police, prosecutors, and judiciary are required to undergo specialised training on domestic violence.
- Strict Penalties: Ranging from fines to up to 10 years imprisonment for repeat offenders, with separate provisions for abusers who are also the victims’ spouses.
Benefits of the Act
- Legal Protection for Vulnerable Populations: Women, children, elderly relatives, disabled persons, and same‑sex couples now have a clear legal path to protection.
- Public Awareness: Mandatory media campaigns educate citizens about rights and reporting mechanisms.
- Integrated Response System: Coordination between police, health, and social sections ensures a single‑stop relief pathway.
- Data Collection: The Act demands yearly reporting of incidents, allowing policy makers to measure progress and allocate resources effectively.
- Community Empowerment: NGOs and faith‑based groups are recognised as vital partners, receiving grants to run shelters and support programs.
Who Is Protected?
The Act protects every person living in a domestic setting, regardless of marital status or gender. Under its umbrella are:
- Married individuals (both wives and husbands).
- Common‑law partners and couples in cohabitation.
- Children and unborn children residing with parents or caregivers.
- Elderly relatives reliant on family for care.
- Persons with disabilities or chronic illnesses, who may face custodial abuse.
- LGBTIQ+ couples, including transgender and trans‑sexual families.
- Domestic workers living with employers or clients.
By encompassing these groups, the law breaks previous gaps that left many susceptible to harm while living under the same roof.
Practical Steps for Victims
1. Call the 24/7 helpline at 1121.
2. Visit the nearest support centre for immediate medical care and assessment.
3. Submit a written complaint to the police. The Act provides police training to handle domestic‑violence cases sensitively.
4. Apply for a protection order via the designated court.
5. Access free legal counsel through the victim’s lawyer liaison office.
Conclusion
The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2026 represents a watershed moment for Pakistan. By legally recognising domestic harm, establishing protective mechanisms, and holding abusers accountable, the law promises safer homes and dignity for all citizens. The next decade will test the law’s implementation, but the legislative framework is now in place for stronger enforcement and societal change. Advocates, law‑enforcers, and the community must collaborate to ensure its principles translate into everyday protection for the vulnerable.
