Rights of Women Against Exploitation Under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) was enacted to provide effective remedies to women facing abuse, harassment, and exploitation within domestic relationships.
It goes beyond criminal punishment and offers civil reliefs, ensuring that women are protected, supported, and empowered to reclaim their dignity.
At Legal Light Consulting – LLC Lawyer, we specialize in representing women in cases of domestic violence, cruelty, dowry harassment, and abandonment, ensuring they receive justice and rightful protection under the law.
Rights of Women Against Exploitation
1. Right Against Physical and Sexual Exploitation (Section 498A IPC)
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Any act of assault, harassment, or sexual abuse by the husband or his relatives is punishable.
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Women have the right to file an FIR under Section 498A IPC for cruelty or harassment related to dowry or abuse.
2. Right Against Economic Exploitation (Section 125 CrPC)
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A deserted or neglected wife has the right to claim maintenance (financial support) from her husband.
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Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) ensures that a woman is not left destitute and can secure a livelihood.
3. Right to Compensation Against Desertion
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As per the Supreme Court’s judgment in 1994 (6 SCC 641), a woman has the right to claim compensation if deserted by her husband.
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This helps protect women from being abandoned without financial or emotional security.
4. Right to Custody of Children Below 5 Years
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A mother has the legal right to custody of children below the age of five.
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This ensures that young children remain with their primary caregiver and provides emotional stability to the mother and child.
5. Right to Matrimonial Presents and Streedhan
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Streedhan (jewelry, money, gifts given at the time of marriage) remains the exclusive property of the woman.
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She has the right to retain, reclaim, and protect her streedhan even if marital disputes arise.
6. Right Against Dowry
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Women are protected under the Dowry Prohibition Act as well as related provisions under IPC.
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Any demand for dowry is illegal, and women have the right to initiate legal action against the husband and his family.
7. Right Against Cruelty, Bodily Harassment, and Torture
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Cruel treatment, both physical and mental, constitutes a violation of women’s rights.
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The law provides for punishment of offenders and protection orders to ensure safety.
8. Right Against Domestic Violence (Section 3 of PWDVA, 2005)
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The Act broadly defines domestic violence to include physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, and economic abuse.
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Women can seek relief through:
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Protection orders (restraining abusive husband/relatives)
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Residence orders (right to reside in the shared household)
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Monetary relief (maintenance, compensation for losses)
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Custody orders (custody of children)
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How Legal Light Consulting – LLC Lawyer Can Help
At Legal Light Consulting, we provide comprehensive support to women facing exploitation under domestic violence laws:
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Filing FIRs and complaints under Section 498A IPC and other provisions.
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Representation in courts for maintenance, custody, and compensation claims.
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Guidance on reclaiming streedhan and matrimonial property.
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Protection orders and injunctions against abusive spouses and in-laws.
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Counseling and legal strategy to ensure long-term security and justice.
Let Us Help You Assert Your Rights
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence or exploitation, don’t wait. Contact Legal Light Consulting today for a confidential consultation. Our team of experienced lawyers is here to protect your rights, restore your dignity, and guide you toward justice.
Conclusion
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, along with other provisions under IPC and CrPC, safeguards women against abuse, desertion, cruelty, dowry, and exploitation. Every woman has the right to live with dignity, safety, and financial independence.
At Legal Light Consulting – LLC Lawyer, we are committed to protecting these rights and ensuring women receive the legal remedies and justice they deserve.
