Is Domestic Slavery A Form Of DV?

Domestic slavery involves forcing an individual—often a woman or girl—into unpaid labor or servitude within a household, depriving them of freedom and basic rights. This practice, though often hidden, constitutes severe abuse and exploitation. Indian laws, including the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (DV Act), recognize such forms of coercion and exploitation as part of domestic violence.

Domestic Slavery as Domestic Violence

Definition and Scope

• Domestic slavery includes forced labor, servitude, confinement, and exploitation within a household.
• It often overlaps with other forms of abuse like physical violence, emotional abuse, and economic control.

Legal Recognition under DV Act

• The DV Act broadly defines domestic violence to include physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse.
• Forcing a woman or dependent family member to work without consent or adequate compensation falls under economic abuse and coercion.
• Depriving an individual of freedom or subjecting them to inhuman conditions is recognized as domestic violence.

Related Laws and Human Rights

• Domestic slavery may also violate laws related to bonded labor (Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976), human trafficking, and constitutional rights to personal liberty and dignity.
• Courts have taken a strong stance against domestic slavery, treating it as a serious violation of human rights.

Protection and Remedies under DV Act

• Survivors can seek protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief.
• Protection Officers and police can intervene to rescue victims from exploitative households.
• Courts can direct counseling, rehabilitation, and compensation for survivors.

Challenges in Identification

• Domestic slavery is often concealed within the family, making detection difficult.
• Survivors may face fear or social stigma in reporting such abuse.
• Awareness and legal aid are crucial to empower victims.

Consumer Safety Tips

• Recognize signs of forced labor or servitude within the household.
• Seek help from women’s NGOs, legal aid clinics, or Protection Officers if subjected to exploitation.
• Document any instances of coercion, unpaid labor, or abuse.
• Understand your rights under the DV Act and other relevant laws.
• Use helplines and support groups to get assistance and counseling.

Example

A woman in Karnataka was forced by her in-laws to perform all household chores without rest, denied access to money or communication, and threatened with eviction when she resisted. She filed a complaint under the DV Act citing economic and emotional abuse. The court granted her protection and residence orders, recognizing domestic slavery as domestic violence.