Section 2 of PWDVA : Section 2: Definitions

Explanation using Example

Example Scenario:

Reena is a woman who has been married to Akash for five years. They live together in Akash's ancestral home, which constitutes a 'shared household' as per the Act. Over the past year, Akash has become increasingly aggressive, often shouting at Reena and on two occasions, he has physically harmed her. Reena is now afraid for her safety and decides to take action.

Reena qualifies as an 'aggrieved person' because she is in a domestic relationship with Akash and has been subjected to 'domestic violence'. She approaches a 'Protection Officer' to report the incidents, who then files a 'domestic incident report'. The Protection Officer helps her to obtain a 'protection order' from the 'Magistrate', which restrains Akash from committing any further acts of domestic violence and prohibits him from entering parts of the shared household.

Additionally, the Magistrate grants Reena a 'residence order', ensuring she can continue to live in the shared household without having to cohabit with Akash. The Magistrate also issues a 'monetary relief' order, requiring Akash to pay Reena a monthly allowance to cover her living expenses and any medical costs incurred due to the violence.

During this process, Reena stays at a 'shelter home', a safe space notified by the State Government for women affected by domestic violence. The 'service provider' running the shelter home also offers her counseling and legal aid to help her through this difficult time.