What support services are available for domestic violence victims?

Answer By law4u team

In India, victims of domestic violence can access multiple legal, medical, and social support services under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) and related schemes, now read with relevant Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) offences where applicable. Legal Support • Protection Orders, Residence Orders, Monetary Relief – Issued by Magistrate under PWDVA. • Free Legal Aid – Available through District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA) under the Legal Services Authorities Act. • Fast-track hearings – Courts can prioritise urgent relief. Police & Administrative Support • Protection Officers – Appointed to help victims file applications, connect to shelters, and coordinate with police. • Special Cells for Women & Children – Run with police and NGOs for counselling and FIR registration. Shelter & Counselling • Shelter Homes – Temporary accommodation for victims and children, often run by state governments or NGOs. • Counselling Services – Provided through Protection Officers, One Stop Centres, and NGOs. Medical Support • Free Medical Examination & Treatment – In government hospitals, mandatory for domestic violence cases. • Medical documentation – Can be used as evidence in court. Helplines & Immediate Assistance • Women’s Helpline 181 – Available in most states for emergency help. • Police Helpline 112 – For immediate law enforcement assistance. • One Stop Centres (OSC) – Provide integrated services: legal aid, police help, medical care, and counselling in one place.

Answer By Ayantika Mondal

Dear Client, Victims of domestic abuse have a range of support services at their disposal which provide for immediate relief, long term security, and emotional healing. These services which are put forward by a mix of government agencies, non-profits and community groups. 1. Urgent and On the spot Support. Helplines: A victim’s first point of contact is usually a national helpline. These are 24/7, free of charge lines which provide instant support and a private setting to talk to trained counselors. They put out info, give support in a crisis and also connect the caller in with local resources. The Women’s Helpline (181) and the Emergency Response Support System (112) are key government run services. One Stop Centres (OSCs): These are part of the government’s initiative which include the Nirbhaya Fund. We have established OSCs which are a one stop solution for women affected by violence. A victim can approach an OSC for medical help, police support, legal advice, psychological counseling and temporary shelter. We have put in place a single point of contact which also takes care of the access to many different services which the women may require without the need to go to many different places. 2. Sanctuary and Safety. Shelter Homes/Short Stay Homes: These programs offer a safe transition home for women and their children leaving an abusive situation. These shelters are a secure base which allows the victim time to sort out the future which may include going back to a safe home, pursuing legal options, or to leave and find a new home. Protection Officers: Under the aegis of the 2005 Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) the government has put in place Protection Officers which play the role of advocates for the victim. They assist in the filing of a complaint, obtain for the issue of a Protection Order from the court and also see to it that the victim has access to shelter homes and medical care. 3. Legal and Justice Support. Legal Aid: Victims have access to free legal aid which is available for cases under the PWDVA and any other relevant law. Organizations including the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA) and also many NGOs provide legal counseling and representation which in turn protects the victims’ rights. Maintenance: Under the PWDVA a victim may apply to the court for a monetary award from the abuser which goes towards food, clothing, medicine, and other basics. This is a very important step for victims that are financially tied to their abuser. 4. Counseling and Vocational Rehabilitation. Psychological Counseling: Domestic violence causes great psychological harm. We see that counseling services are a resource for victims which help them with trauma, anxiety, depression, and low self esteem. Many NGOs and government bodies run individual and group therapy sessions. The Stree Manoraksha Project which is a partnership between NIMHANS and the Ministry of Women and Child Development is a reportable effort to improve mental health care in One Stop Centres. Vocational Training and Skill Development: To attain financial independence which is a key step out of abuse victims may get into training in many skills. Many NGOs and shelter homes run these programs which also help victims get back into the work force and to rebuild their lives. Rehabilitation: The goal is to see that victims live independently and with dignity. We put in place support services which also go beyond just survival for our victims instead we are able to present them with a path to a new safe life. I hope this answers your questions but if it doesn’t please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Thank you!