Answer By law4u team
Yes, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) can be used against live-in partners. Legal Provisions: Section 2(f) defines a domestic relationship to include relationships “in the nature of marriage.” This covers live-in relationships where the woman and man lived together as if married, even if not legally married. Conditions: The woman must prove: The relationship was stable and continuous, They lived together in a shared household, It was not a casual or one-night relationship. Key Court Rulings: Indra Sarma v. V.K.V. Sarma (2013) – The Supreme Court held that a woman in a relationship "in the nature of marriage" is entitled to protection under the Act. Chanmuniya v. Virendra Singh (2010) – Held that even in the absence of formal marriage, a woman in a live-in relationship may claim maintenance. Reliefs Available: Protection from abuse (physical, emotional, economic, sexual) Right to residence Maintenance Custody of children Compensation for mental and emotional distress Conclusion: A woman in a genuine live-in relationship that resembles marriage can invoke the Domestic Violence Act against her partner if she suffers abuse. The law is meant to protect women in vulnerable relationships, regardless of formal marital status.
