how to report domestic violence in Pakistan
Domestic violence is one of the most pressing social issues in Pakistan, yet it remains under-reported and under-addressed. It refers to any act of physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse that takes place within the household, usually against women and children. The problem is not unique to Pakistan; it is a global issue that exists in developed and developing countries alike. However, in Pakistan, cultural traditions, patriarchal values, and weak implementation of the law have made the issue particularly severe.
According to various studies, thousands of women in Pakistan face some form of domestic violence each year, ranging from physical assault to psychological torture, forced marriages, dowry-related abuse, and even honor killings. Despite the existence of legal frameworks, many victims do not seek justice because of fear of social stigma, financial dependency on their abusers, or lack of trust in the legal system. As a result, domestic violence often goes unpunished, creating a cycle of abuse that continues across generations.
Addressing domestic violence is critical not only for protecting victims but also for creating a more just, safe, and equitable society. Families form the foundation of any community, and if homes are filled with fear and violence, the entire society suffers. Pakistan has taken steps in recent years to introduce laws such as the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, both at the federal and provincial levels. However, implementation remains a challenge, and awareness is still limited.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of domestic violence in Pakistan. It will define the concept, explore its causes, examine the Islamic perspective, discuss the legal framework and punishments, highlight the challenges in implementation, and suggest practical solutions. By the end of this discussion, readers will have a clear understanding of how Pakistan deals with domestic violence, what punishments are available under the law, and what more needs to be done to protect vulnerable members of society.
Chapter 1: Understanding Domestic Violence
1.1 Definition of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence refers to a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over the other. It can take multiple forms:
Physical violence, such as beating, slapping, choking, or burning.
Emotional or psychological abuse, including humiliation, insults, threats, or controlling behavior.
Sexual violence, such as marital rape or coercion.
Economic abuse, where one partner restricts access to money or resources to exert control.
In Pakistan, domestic violence is often narrowly understood as only “physical beating,” but in reality, it covers all forms of abuse that create fear, harm dignity, or restrict freedom within the family.
1.2 Causes of Domestic Violence in Pakistani Society
The roots of domestic violence in Pakistan are deep and complex. Some of the major causes include:
Patriarchal culture: Society is male-dominated, and men are often considered the ultimate authority in households. This mindset legitimizes control and, at times, violence.
Illiteracy and lack of awareness: Many people do not know that domestic violence is a crime punishable under the law.
Economic dependency: Women who are financially dependent on men often endure abuse silently because they fear losing shelter and support.
Weak law enforcement: Even when cases are reported, police often hesitate to intervene, dismissing domestic violence as a “family matter.”
Misinterpretation of religion: Some individuals misuse religious concepts to justify violent behavior, even though Islam promotes compassion, justice, and mutual respect in families.
1.3 Cultural and Social Roots
Domestic violence in Pakistan is also linked to cultural traditions and social pressures:
Dowry system: Many women face harassment and violence when their families cannot meet dowry demands.
Honor culture: Violence is often justified in the name of “family honor,” leading to tragic crimes like honor killings.
Silence of victims: Social stigma discourages victims from reporting abuse. Women fear being labeled “dishonorable” or “rebellious.”
Extended family conflicts: In joint family systems, conflicts with in-laws sometimes lead to women becoming victims of violence.
1. Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Acts
Several provinces have passed laws specifically addressing domestic violence:
Islamabad Capital Territory: Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2012
Sindh: Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013
Balochistan: Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2014
Punjab: Protection of Women Against Violence Act, 2016
Under these laws:Physical abuse → Imprisonment up to 3 years + fine.
Emotional/psychological abuse → Imprisonment up to 1 year + fine.
Economic abuse (withholding money/property) → Fine + imprisonment depending on severity.
Stalking/harassment → Fine + imprisonment up to 1 year.
These Acts also provide for protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief for victims.
2. Punishment under Pakistan Penal Code (PPC)
Even before special domestic violence laws, cases were prosecuted under general criminal laws:
Assault (Section 352, PPC): Up to 3 months imprisonment, or fine, or both.
Causing hurt (Sections 337–337F, PPC): Punishment ranges from Daman (compensation) to 10 years imprisonment, depending on severity.
Dowry-related violence (Section 498A, PPC): Punishment up to 3 years imprisonment and fine.
Honor-related violence (Section 302/311, PPC): Can lead to life imprisonment or death penalty if it results in murder.
3. Protection Orders
Under domestic violence laws, courts can issue protection orders stopping the abuser from:
Approaching the victim
Communicating threats
Dispossessing the victim from her house
Accessing children without court approval
Violation of a protection order itself is punishable with 6 months imprisonment and fine.
4. Child Custody & Financial Responsibilities
In many domestic violence cases, courts also decide on:
Child custody (usually in favor of the mother if children are young)
Maintenance (Nafaqah) obligations of the husband/father
Failure to pay maintenance is punishable by imprisonment and recovery orders.
Domestic Violence Helplines in Pakistan
Federal & National Level
Toll-Free Helpline 1099 (Ministry of Human Rights)
Free legal advice & counseling for women, children, and vulnerable persons.
Available nationwide.
Police Helpline 15
Emergency reporting of violence, threats, or immediate danger.
Provincial Helplines
Punjab
1043 – Punjab Women’s Helpline (Women Development Department)
Provides information, legal advice, and complaint registration.
042-111-222-333 – Punjab Commission on the Status of Women (PCSW)
Causes of Domestic Violence in Pakistan
Domestic violence in Pakistan is not just an individual problem; it is a deeply rooted social issue. It arises from a combination of cultural, economic, psychological, and legal factors. Understanding the causes is the first step toward finding effective solutions.
1. Patriarchal Mindset and Gender Inequality
Pakistani society is traditionally male-dominated, where men are often considered the heads of households and primary decision-makers. This patriarchal culture creates an imbalance of power, where women are seen as subordinates. Many men feel entitled to control their wives or children, and when that control is challenged, it can lead to violence.
2. Lack of Education and Awareness
Illiteracy and lack of awareness about women’s rights are major causes of domestic violence. In many communities, people do not even recognize emotional or psychological abuse as violence. They consider beating or controlling women a “normal” part of family life. With little knowledge about the law, victims often remain silent, and perpetrators act without fear of consequences.
4. Weak Implementation of Laws
Although Pakistan has laws against domestic violence, their enforcement is weak. Police often dismiss cases as “family matters,” discouraging victims from filing complaints. Court proceedings are lengthy, and many women lack the financial resources to pursue justice. This gap between law and implementation allows domestic violence to continue unchecked.
5. Misinterpretation of Religion
Islam promotes kindness, compassion, and equality in family life. However, in some cases, religious teachings are misinterpreted to justify male dominance or violence. Instead of emphasizing mutual respect, abusers misuse cultural practices under the guise of religion, which creates confusion and enables abuse.
6. Cultural Practices and Social Pressures
Certain harmful traditions contribute to domestic violence in Pakistan:
Dowry system: Women are harassed or abused when dowry expectations are not met.
Honor culture: Families often justify violence in the name of “izzat” (honor).
Joint family conflicts: Disputes with in-laws frequently lead to violence against wives.
Early/forced marriages: Young brides with little agency are more vulnerable to abuse.
7. Substance Abuse and Psychological Issues
Addiction to alcohol, drugs, or gambling often triggers violent behavior in households. Similarly, untreated mental health problems, stress, and anger management issues also contribute to abuse within families.
8. Silence of Victims and Social Stigma
Many victims remain silent due to fear of shame, divorce, or family pressure. Society often blames women for “ruining family honor” if they report violence. This silence allows abusers to continue harming them without accountability.