NEW DELHI: President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has given assent to the Protection of Women from the Domestic Violence Act, 2005, which seeks to provide protection to victims of violence within the family. The Act will be applicable to all States and Union Territories except Jammu and Kashmir.

Domestic violence, as per the Act, constitutes physical or mental harm, including sexual, verbal, emotional or economic abuse by a male member of the family or anyone living under the same roof. Harassment of the victim with a view to coercing her or any other person related to her to meet any unlawful demand for dowry or property is also covered under the new law.

The victim can approach a police officer, protection officer, service provider or magistrate for relief by way of a protection order; have right to free legal services under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and to file a complaint under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, wherever relevant. The aggrieved person is also entitled to shelter if need be in the shelter home and will also be provided medical facilities.

The State Governments, shall by notification, appoint such number of protection officers, as far as possible women, in each district as may be necessary. It shall also notify the area or the areas within which a protection officer shall exercise the powers and perform duties conferred on him by or under this Act.

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