In September 2024, the Supreme Court has affirmed that the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, _____, applies to all women in India regardless of their religion or social background.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: 2005.
Explanation:
- In September 2024, in a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court affirmed that the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) applies equally to all women in India.
- Nature of the Act: It is a secular law. This means it provides protection to any woman, regardless of whether she is a Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or belongs to any other social background.
- Court's Observation: The Court clarified that Personal Laws cannot act as a hindrance to the relief available to women under this Act. This law was primarily enacted to protect women from physical, mental, sexual, or economic violence inflicted upon them.
- Significance: This verdict further strengthens the right to a 'Shared Household' and the provisions for maintenance available to aggrieved women.
Key Features of the Act (Quick Revision):
- Familial Relationships: It is not limited solely to a wife; it also provides protection to live-in partners, mothers, sisters, or widows.
- Domestic Incident Report (DIR): An aggrieved woman can file a complaint through Protection Officers or Service Providers.
- Types of Relief: The Court can issue Protection Orders, Residence Orders, Monetary Relief, and Custody Orders for children.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: From which date did the Domestic Violence Act, 2005, come into force across India?
Answer: October 26, 2006.
Question: In which section of this Act is the definition of 'Domestic Violence' provided?
Answer: Section 3.
Question: Can complaints under this Act be filed only against women? Answer: No, the aggrieved woman can seek relief against any adult male (and, in some cases, female relatives).