Threatening Your Partner With Second Marriage is Now a Punishable Crime in Pakistan

Details of the recently passed Domestic Violence and Protection Act 2025 have emerged, introducing strict penalties for domestic abuse and classifying threats of unjustified divorce or second marriage as punishable offenses.

Parliament approved the bill during a joint session. Pakistan People’s Party leader Sharmila Faruqi presented the bill.

The law introduces a broad definition of domestic violence. It covers physical, emotional, psychological, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse.

Under the act, physical violence includes assault and offences already defined under the Pakistan Penal Code. Psychological abuse covers humiliation, verbal insults, threats, and acts intended to create fear. The law also treats threats of unjustified divorce or remarriage as domestic violence.

False accusations against a woman or any household member’s character are also classified as abuse. Intentionally abandoning or neglecting a victim falls under domestic violence as well. Continuous surveillance, harassment, and interference in private life are criminal offences.

The act further criminalizes forcing a person to live with someone other than their spouse. Any sexual act that damages dignity or self-respect is defined as sexual violence. Economic abuse includes withholding expenses, depriving a person of financial resources, or exercising financial control.

The law sets clear punishments and fines. If domestic violence is proven, courts may sentence the offender to six months to three years in prison. Courts may also award at least Rs. 20,000 in compensation to the victim. Failure to pay the fine can result in an additional three months of imprisonment. Anyone who aids or facilitates abuse will be treated as equally responsible.

The act clearly outlines court procedures. A victim or a protection officer may file a petition in court. The application must be filed in the area where the victim lives or where the shared residence is located. Courts must schedule the first hearing within seven days. Interim protection orders may be issued within the same period. Courts are required to decide cases within 90 days.

Courts may prohibit the accused from contacting the victim in any form. This includes phone calls, messages, social media, or other means. Courts may also order the accused to maintain a specified distance from the victim. In serious cases, courts may direct the accused to vacate the shared residence. Courts may also require the accused to submit a surety bond to ensure the safety of the victim or children. Police may be ordered to provide immediate protection.

The act also clarifies housing and property rights. Victims have a legal right to remain in the shared home. They cannot be evicted even if they do not own the property. Victims may also choose to stay in a shelter home if needed.

The law includes provisions for financial support and maintenance. Courts may order financial assistance and maintenance for victims and children. If property damage occurs, courts may order compensation. In case of non-payment, courts may instruct employers or debtors to deduct the amount directly from salaries or dues.

The act also addresses child custody and guardianship. Courts may grant temporary custody of children or affected adults. In cases involving children, custody decisions will follow the Guardians and Wards Act. Custody of adult victims will be granted according to their wishes.

The law outlines the duration and enforcement of court orders. Interim, protection, and residence orders will remain effective until the victim requests otherwise. Courts may modify or cancel orders if circumstances change. Violating a protection order can result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to Rs. 100,000. The fine will be paid to the victim.

The offence is bailable and compoundable, and the right to appeal is included. Appeals may be filed in a sessions court within 30 days. The sessions court must decide the appeal within 60 days.