Staring at Wife, Threatening Divorce or Second Marriage Declared a Crime as Parliament Passes Law
Islamabad: Pakistan’s Parliament has passed the Domestic Violence Act 2026 during a joint session, marking a significant step toward the social protection of women and children. The law will apply to the federal capital, Islamabad.
Under the newly approved legislation, acts such as staring at a wife with ill intent, threatening divorce or a second marriage, and forcing a wife to live with other family members against her will have been declared punishable offenses.
The law also criminalizes verbal abuse, emotional harassment, and psychological distress inflicted on a wife, children, or any other individuals residing in the household. In addition to physical abuse, the Act includes provisions addressing sexual and economic exploitation.
According to the Domestic Violence Act 2026, offenders may face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs100,000, or both. Failure to pay the fine can result in an additional six months of imprisonment.
Lawmakers said the legislation aims to strengthen legal safeguards for vulnerable family members and provide a clear framework to address domestic abuse in all its forms.
The passage of the Act has been described as a major milestone in promoting family welfare and ensuring accountability for domestic violence within the federal capital.
