Sexual abuse under domestic violence refers to any conduct of a sexual nature that is abusive, exploitative, or forced upon a woman by her partner or family member without her consent or against her will. Under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, sexual abuse is recognized as one of the forms of domestic violence and includes: Any conduct of a sexual nature that abuses, humiliates, degrades, or violates the dignity of a woman. Forced sexual intercourse or demand for sexual acts that the woman is not comfortable with. Use of force, coercion, threats, or manipulation to engage in sexual acts. Denial of the woman’s right to make decisions regarding her own body. Forcing the woman to watch or participate in pornographic or obscene content. Any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior within a domestic relationship. Reproductive coercion such as forcing pregnancy or abortion against her will. It’s important to understand that marriage does not imply unconditional sexual consent. If a husband forces sex upon his wife against her will or uses violence or threats, it is considered sexual abuse under the law. Although marital rape is not yet criminalized in India (with certain exceptions like during separation), sexual abuse within marriage is still recognized as a ground for protection, relief, and legal remedies under the Domestic Violence Act. Victims can approach the court or a protection officer to seek protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief, custody of children, and compensation. Conclusion: Sexual abuse under domestic violence includes any form of forced or non-consensual sexual activity, behavior that harms the woman’s dignity or safety, or uses sex as a means of control. It is a serious violation of bodily autonomy and is legally recognized for protection and relief under Indian law.

"Sexual abuse" is defined as a specific type of conduct that constitutes domestic violence under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA). Specifically, "sexual abuse" includes any conduct of a sexual nature that abuses, humiliates, degrades or otherwise violates the dignity of woman. This definition is provided within the explanation of what constitutes domestic violence under Section 3 of the Act. Domestic violence is defined to include various types of abuse, such as physical, sexual, verbal and emotional, and economic abuse.