Domestic violence is a serious problem affecting many families in Ranchi and across Jharkhand. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, there are strong legal protections available under Indian law. Advocate Ankit Burman, a dedicated family lawyer in Ranchi, explains the Domestic Violence Act and how to get immediate legal protection.
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) is a comprehensive civil law that protects women from all forms of domestic violence including physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, and economic abuse.
Who Can File a Domestic Violence Case in Ranchi?
Any woman who is or has been in a domestic relationship with the abuser can file a complaint. This includes:
- Wife or woman in live-in relationship
- Mother, sister, daughter, or female relative living in the shared household
What Constitutes Domestic Violence Under the Act?
- Physical abuse: Beating, slapping, kicking, any bodily harm
- Sexual abuse: Forced sexual acts, degrading sexual behavior
- Verbal and emotional abuse: Insults, humiliation, threats, intimidation
- Economic abuse: Withholding money, not allowing to take up employment, taking away earnings
- Dowry-related abuse: Harassment for dowry demands
Orders Available Under Domestic Violence Act
Protection Orders
Directs the abuser to stop committing acts of domestic violence and prohibits them from contacting or approaching the victim.
Residence Orders
Ensures the woman’s right to reside in the shared household. The abuser cannot dispossess her from the matrimonial home.
Monetary Relief
Compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings, maintenance, and other financial losses caused by domestic violence.
Custody Orders
Temporary custody of children can be granted to the victim.
How to File a Domestic Violence Case in Ranchi
Step 1: Report to Protection Officer
Contact the Protection Officer designated by the government in Ranchi district or approach the Magistrate Court directly.
Step 2: File Domestic Incident Report (DIR)
The Protection Officer prepares a Domestic Incident Report documenting the abuse.
Step 3: File Application Before Magistrate Court
File an application for protection/residence/monetary orders before the Judicial Magistrate in Ranchi.
Step 4: Interim Protection
The court can pass immediate interim protection orders on the same day to protect the victim.
Can I Also File Section 498A IPC?
Yes. Many domestic violence victims also file criminal complaints under Section 498A IPC (cruelty by husband or relatives) simultaneously for criminal prosecution of the abuser.
Get Immediate Help – Domestic Violence Lawyer in Ranchi
If you are facing domestic violence, contact Advocate Ankit Burman immediately for confidential legal assistance.
📞 +91 7384818188
📍 Near Civil Court, Ranchi – 834001