Supreme Court Domestic Violence Act Digest 2025 – Key Case Summaries

Supreme Court Domestic Violence Act 2005 cases

Domestic Violence Act Supreme Court judgments

Updated up to 31st December 2025 (India)

Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (Commentary)

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, provides civil remedies and protection orders to victims of domestic abuse. Over the years, the Supreme Court of India has interpreted this statute in important cases that shape how domestic violence is understood and administered across the country. This Supreme Court digest helps lawyers, law students, and litigants understand how India’s highest court refines the application of the DV Act. Summaries focus on legal principles, procedural requirements, and judicial trends shaping protection and enforcement in domestic violence cases.

Below is a concise and updated digest of key Supreme Court rulings under the DV Act.

1. Coram: VIKRAM NATH*, SANDEEP MEHTA
   Summary: (Geeta @ Reeta Mishra v. Ajay Kumar Mishra)The Supreme Court affirmed the High Court’s decision, subject to certain directions. Marriage irretrievably broken; divorce upheld; father must fund daughter’s wedding.
   Acts: Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act.
   Decision Date: 12-09-2025 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 11787/2025 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
2. Coram: DIPANKAR DATTA*, K. VINOD CHANDRAN
   Summary: (Mrs. Shailja Krishna v. Satori Global Limited & Ors.)The judgment references a legal guide and lists several acts. Board meetings invalid due to lack of notice and quorum; illegal director induction couldn’t cure. Appellant filed a petition under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 against the second and the fourth respondent. Later that year, she came to know that her name has been removed from the list of shareholders and instead, the fourth respondent was shown to have acquired her shareholdings.
   Acts: Companies Act, 1956; Companies Act, 2013; Domestic Violence Act, 2006; Specific Relief Act.
   Decision Date: 02-09-2025 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 6377/2023 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
3. Coram: BHUSHAN RAMKRISHNA GAVAI*, K. VINOD CHANDRAN
   Summary: Discusses the purpose of laws to prevent domestic violence and deter unnatural deaths/suicides in marital spaces.
   Decision Date: 18-08-2025 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2177/2024 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
4. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, SATISH CHANDRA SHARMA
   Summary: Involves an appeal concerning a complaint of domestic violence. The complainant, pregnant at the time, alleged an injury from hitting a railing.
   Decision Date: 04-06-2025 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2894/2025 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
5. Coram: ABHAY S. OKA*, UJJAL BHUYAN
   Summary: Pertains to quashing proceedings initiated under Section 12 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
   Acts: Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
   Decision Date: 19-05-2025 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2688/2025 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
6. Coram: J.B. PARDIWALA*, R MAHADEVAN
   Summary: Addresses human trafficking, listing reasons like poor conditions, gender inequality, negligible penalties, domestic violence, and child marriage.
   Decision Date: 15-04-2025 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1927/2025 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
7. Coram: J.K. MAHESHWARI*, RAJESH BINDAL
   Summary: Cites precedent cases and discusses maintenance payments under Section 125 Cr.P.C. and Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act.
   Acts: Motor Vehicles Act, 1988; Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973; Domestic Violence Act.
   Decision Date: 18-03-2025 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 4299/2025 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
8. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, N KOTISWAR SINGH
   Summary: Concerns quashing of charges under IPC Sections 498A, 506, and the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, as well as the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
   Acts: Penal Code, 1860; Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
   Decision Date: 07-02-2025 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 609/2025 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
9. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, SATISH CHANDRA SHARMA
   Summary: References the case of Prabha Tyagi vs. Kamlesh Devi regarding the interpretation of a “subsisting domestic relationship” under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
   Acts: Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
   Decision Date: 30-01-2025 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 515/2025 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
10. Coram: BHUSHAN RAMKRISHNA GAVAI*, K.V. VISWANATHAN
    Summary: Involves the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 and the Code of Criminal Procedure.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Code of Criminal Procedure.
    Decision Date: 20-12-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 5543/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
11. Coram: VIKRAM NATH*, PRASANNA BHALACHANDRA VARALE
    Summary: Appeal in a divorce case (Hindu Marriage Act) on grounds of cruelty, alleging continuous domestic violence and desertion.
    Acts: Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
    Decision Date: 20-12-2024 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 14833/2024 | Disposal Nature: Case Partly allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
12. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, N KOTISWAR SINGH
    Summary: Discusses that an official acting under colour of duty may be protected, even if the act is illegal, unlike acts of pure domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 26-11-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 4825/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
13. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, J.B. PARDIWALA, MANOJ MISRA
    Summary: Writ petition citing international conventions on combating violence against women and domestic violence.
    Acts: Protection of Child Rights Act 2005; Legal Services Authorities Act 1987; Domestic Violence Act.
    Decision Date: 18-10-2024 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 1234/2017 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 3 Judges
14. Coram: PAMIDIGHANTAM SRI NARASIMHA*, PANKAJ MITHAL
    Summary: Allowed an appeal, finding no offence made out based on vague allegations. Notes a similar domestic violence complaint.
    Decision Date: 25-09-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 4003/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
15. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, N KOTISWAR SINGH
    Summary: Clarifies the applicability of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 10-09-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 3989/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
16. Coram: J.B. PARDIWALA*, MANOJ MISRA
    Summary: Discusses various acts including the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 and the Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013; SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
    Decision Date: 23-08-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2622/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
17. Coram: VIKRAM NATH*, PRASHANT KUMAR MISHRA
    Summary: Involves Article 142 powers and a case history including a petition under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act.
    Acts: Penal Code, 1860; Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; CrPC, 1973.
    Decision Date: 15-07-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2915/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
18. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, AUGUSTINE GEORGE MASIH
    Summary: Holds that maintenance under Section 125 CrPC is independent of and additional to maintenance under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Code of Criminal Procedure.
    Decision Date: 10-07-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2842/2024 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
19. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, J.B. PARDIWALA, MANOJ MISRA
    Summary: Writ petition listing numerous acts, including the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Includes Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 17-05-2024 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 432/2023 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 3 Judges
20. Coram: ABHAY S. OKA*, UJJAL BHUYAN
    Summary: Criminal appeal where the court discarded the theory of domestic violence as a motive for murder, noting the appellant tried to save the deceased.
    Decision Date: 15-05-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2281/2011 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
21. Coram: VIKRAM NATH*, SATISH CHANDRA SHARMA
    Summary: Civil appeal involving the Guardian and Wards Act, 1890 and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act.
    Acts: Guardian and Wards Act, 1890; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act.
    Decision Date: 08-05-2024 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 6137/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
22. Coram: J.B. PARDIWALA*, MANOJ MISRA
    Summary: Allowed an appeal in a case where a domestic violence complaint was filed in October 2020.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 03-05-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2379/2024 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
23. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD, ABHAY S. OKA, J.B. PARDIWALA, PANKAJ MITHAL, MANOJ MISRA
    Summary: Constitution Bench reference discussing priority for cases under acts like the Hindu Marriage Act and Domestic Violence Act which prescribe specific timelines.
    Acts: Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.
    Decision Date: 29-02-2024 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 3589/2023 | Disposal Nature: Reference answered | Bench: 5 Judges
24. Coram: B.V. NAGARATHNA*, UJJAL BHUYAN
    Summary: Addresses jurisdiction in matrimonial cases alleging cruelty and violence, taking note of social realities of dowry harassment complaints.
    Decision Date: 20-11-2023 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 003549/2023 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
25. Coram: VIKRAM NATH*, RAJESH BINDAL
    Summary: Issued guidelines on overlapping jurisdiction of courts for maintenance under various acts including the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Special Marriage Act, 1954; CrPC; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Hindu Marriage Act.
    Decision Date: 06-11-2023 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 3446/2023 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
26. Coram: ANIRUDDHA BOSE*, BELA M. TRIVEDI
    Summary: Examines whether courts can quash connected proceedings under the Domestic Violence Act, Section 125 CrPC, or Section 498A IPC as part of a settlement.
    Decision Date: 10-10-2023 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 2045/2011 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
27. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD, PAMIDIGHANTAM SRI NARASIMHA, MANOJ MISRA
    Summary: Issued directions, stating that the location of offences like domestic violence should not be disclosed to avoid compromising the victim.
    Decision Date: 13-09-2023 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1255/1999 | Disposal Nature: Directions issued | Bench: 3 Judges
28. Coram: A.S. BOPANNA*, HIMA KOHLI
    Summary: Emphasizes the need to prevent all forms of violence (domestic violence, sexual assault, etc.) and provide real initiatives for women’s advancement.
    Decision Date: 12-05-2023 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 2482/2014 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
29. Coram: SANJAY KISHAN KAUL*, SANJIV KHANNA, ABHAY S. OKA, VIKRAM NATH, J.K. MAHESHWARI
    Summary: Constitution Bench reference on whether courts can quash connected proceedings under the Domestic Violence Act, Section 125 CrPC, or Section 498A IPC.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; CrPC, 1973; IPC, 1860; Hindu Marriage Act.
    Decision Date: 01-05-2023 | Case No: TRANSFER PETITION (CIVIL) No. 1118/2014 | Disposal Nature: Reference answered | Bench: 5 Judges
30. Coram: AJAY RASTOGI*, C.T. RAVIKUMAR
    Summary: Cited Shalu Ojha v. Prashant Ojha, observing that the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 was rendered a “pious hope” in that case.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 02-11-2022 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1874/2022 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
31. Coram: M.R. SHAH, B.V. NAGARATHNA
    Summary: Case (Prabha Tyagi v. Kamlesh Devi) interpreting Sections 12, 17, 19, 22 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 regarding allegations and relief for domestic violence.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 12-05-2022 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 511/2022 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
32. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, SURYA KANT, BELA M. TRIVEDI
    Summary: Cited Indra Sarma v. VKV Sarma on the restrictive definition of ‘domestic relationship’ in Section 2(f) of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 22-04-2022 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 2748/2022 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
33. Coram: UDAY UMESH LALIT*, PAMIDIGHANTAM SRI NARASIMHA
    Summary: Pertains to proceedings under Sections 12 and 31 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 13-04-2022 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 627/2022 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
34. Coram: VINEET SARAN, DINESH MAHESHWARI
    Summary: Writ petition involving child custody and a separate case filed under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 by the wife.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 28-07-2021 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 318/2020 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
35. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, M.R. SHAH
    Summary: References a study on “Domestic Violence Against Disabled Women in Odisha.”
    Decision Date: 27-04-2021 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 452/2021 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
36. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, INDU MALHOTRA, INDIRA BANERJEE
    Summary: Granted anticipatory bail, noting the magistrate found no substance in allegations under Section 23 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 17-12-2020 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 883/2020 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
37. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, INDU MALHOTRA, INDIRA BANERJEE
    Summary: Held that the premises constituted a ‘shared household’ under Section 2(s) of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 15-12-2020 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 3822/2020 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
38. Coram: INDU MALHOTRA*, R. SUBHASH REDDY
    Summary: Disposed of an appeal involving multiple matrimonial and maintenance laws.
    Acts: Special Marriage Act, 1954; Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956; Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 04-11-2020 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 730/2020 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
39. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, INDU MALHOTRA, INDIRA BANERJEE
    Summary: Disposed of an appeal in a divorce case (cruelty) where the wife left the matrimonial home due to domestic violence and abuse.
    Acts: Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 28-10-2020 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 3544/2020 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 3 Judges
40. Coram: ASHOK BHUSHAN, M.R. SHAH, R. SUBHASH REDDY
    Summary: (Chander Ahuja v. Sneha Ahuja*) Dismissed appeal concerning a complaint under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 15-10-2020 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 3483/2020 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 3 Judges
41. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD*, INDU MALHOTRA, K.M. JOSEPH
    Summary: Writ petition discussing constitutional scope beyond the term ‘domestic violence’.
    Decision Date: 01-10-2020 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 708/2020 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
42. Coram: R. BANUMATHI*, INDIRA BANERJEE
    Summary: Discusses that a policeman assaulting a domestic help or indulging in domestic violence is not acting under colour of duty.
    Decision Date: 18-06-2020 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 458/2020 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
43. Coram: DEEPAK GUPTA*, ANIRUDDHA BOSE
    Summary: Civil appeal where directions under Article 142 were issued. Recognised rights under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 and Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act.
    Decision Date: 27-04-2020 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 7231/2012 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
44. Coram: INDIRA BANERJEE*, M.R. SHAH
    Summary: Allowed appeal in a case where the wife had sought relief under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 19-02-2020 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 321/2020 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
45. Coram: R. BANUMATHI, A.S. BOPANNA, HRISHIKESH ROY
    Summary: (Devda and Others v. Parimala*) Allowed appeal partly, discussing orders under Sections 18-20 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 when acts of violence are alleged.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 22-01-2020 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 141/2020 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Direction Issue: Appeals Partly Allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
46. Coram: DEEPAK GUPTA*, ANIRUDDHA BOSE
    Summary: Discusses the mandate of child rights bodies to examine factors inhibiting children’s rights, including those affected by domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 13-01-2020 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 7968/2019 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Direction Issue: Appeal partly disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
47. Coram: MOHAN M. SHANTANAGOUDAR*, ANIRUDDHA BOSE
    Summary: Highlights vulnerabilities from child marriage, including exposure to domestic violence and trafficking.
    Decision Date: 07-11-2019 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1331/2013 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
48. Coram: ARUN MISHRA*, VINEET SARAN
    Summary: Writ petition urging legislation to protect girls from all forms of violence, including domestic violence and incest.
    Decision Date: 03-05-2019 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 129/2017 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
49. Coram: R. BANUMATHI*, S. ABDUL NAZEER
    Summary: Lists multiple pending cases between parties, including a case under the Domestic Violence Act.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act.
    Decision Date: 01-05-2019 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 4541/2019 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
50. Coram: RANJAN GOGOI*, L. NAGESWARA RAO, SANJAY KISHAN KAUL
    Summary: Involves issues of jurisdiction in crimes and references the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; CrPC, 1973; Evidence Act, 1972.
    Decision Date: 09-04-2019 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 71/2012 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 3 Judges
51. Coram: D.Y. CHANDRACHUD, HEMANT GUPTA
    Summary: (Rakesh Kumar v. Lata) Relates to the award of maintenance under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 08-04-2019 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 617/2019 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
52. Coram: A.M. KHANWILKAR*, AJAY RASTOGI
    Summary: Noted there was no averment of domestic violence in the pleadings at a specific point in time.
    Decision Date: 15-03-2019 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 3135/2019 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
53. Coram: DIPAK MISRA, R.F. NARIMAN, D.Y. CHANDRACHUD, A.M. KHANWILKAR, INDU MALHOTRA
    Summary: Constitution Bench judgment distinguishing private adultery from crimes like dowry demand and domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 27-09-2018 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 194/2017 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 5 Judges
54. Coram: DIPAK MISRA*, D.Y. CHANDRACHUD, A.M. KHANWILKAR
    Summary: Held a mother who is a victim of domestic violence cannot be forced to stay in an unfriendly environment.
    Decision Date: 20-07-2018 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 635/2018 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
55. Coram: A.K. SIKRI*, ASHOK BHUSHAN
    Summary: Set aside a High Court order, upholding a child’s choice to live with a parent, in a case involving matrimonial laws and the Domestic Violence Act.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
    Decision Date: 20-04-2018 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 597/2018 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
56. Coram: N.V. RAMANA*, S. ABDUL NAZEER
    Summary: Criminal appeal noting that the wife had also filed a domestic violence case against the deceased and the petitioner.
    Decision Date: 09-04-2018 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 515/2018 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
57. Coram: DIPAK MISRA*, D.Y. CHANDRACHUD, A.M. KHANWILKAR
    Summary: Writ petition referencing the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence.
    Decision Date: 27-03-2018 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 231/2010 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 3 Judges
58. Coram: MADAN B. LOKUR*, DEEPAK GUPTA
    Summary: Writ petition on child rights, mentioning factors like domestic violence that inhibit children’s enjoyment of rights.
    Decision Date: 09-02-2018 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 473/2005 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
59. Coram: A.K. SIKRI*, ASHOK BHUSHAN
    Summary: Discusses the impact of feminism in criminology emphasizing women as victims of rape and domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 30-10-2017 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 492/2014 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
60. Coram: MADAN B. LOKUR*, DEEPAK GUPTA
    Summary: Writ petition stating there is no immunity for a husband for certain offences and that the Domestic Violence Act applies.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act.
    Decision Date: 11-10-2017 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 382/2013 | Disposal Nature: Directions issued | Bench: 2 Judges
61. Coram: A.K. SIKRI, ASHOK BHUSHAN
    Summary: (Shalu Ojha v. Prashant Ojha*) Disposed of a Special Leave Petition concerning an application under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 for maintenance.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 04-09-2017 | Case No: SPECIAL LEAVE PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 3935/2016 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
62. Coram: A.K. SIKRI*, ASHOK BHUSHAN
    Summary: Allowed appeal in a case where the appellant filed a domestic violence case on grounds of mental cruelty.
    Decision Date: 04-09-2017 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1553/2017 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
63. Coram: ADARSH KUMAR GOEL*, UDAY UMESH LALIT
    Summary: Issued directions, suggesting counseling under Section 14 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 should be mandatory before case registration in certain situations.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 27-07-2017 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1265/2017 | Disposal Nature: Directions issued | Bench: 2 Judges
64. Coram: R.F. NARIMAN, SANJAY KISHAN KAUL
    Summary: (Manmohan Attavar v. Neelam Manmohan Attavar*) Interprets Sections 2(f), 2(s), 17, and 19 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 regarding residence orders and the right to reside.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 14-07-2017 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 2500/2017 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
65. Coram: DIPAK MISRA*, A.M. KHANWILKAR, MOHAN M. SHANTANAGOUDAR
    Summary: Allowed appeal concerning child custody, noting the mother was forced to return to India due to domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 03-07-2017 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 972/2017 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 3 Judges
66. Coram: KURIAN JOSEPH, R. BANUMATHI
    Summary: (Samir Bhardwaj v. Nandita Samir Bhardwaj*) Dismissed appeal concerning an application under Section 19(1)(b) of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 for a residence order.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 09-05-2017 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 6450/2017 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
67. Coram: A.K. SIKRI*, ASHOK BHUSHAN
    Summary: Discusses that the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 was enacted for effective protection and covers aspects beyond Chapter IV (Sections 12-23).
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 09-05-2017 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 6448/2017 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
68. Coram: KURIAN JOSEPH*, R. BANUMATHI
    Summary: Allowed appeal adjusting maintenance, referencing an earlier interim maintenance order under Section 23(2) of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 30-03-2017 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 4615/2017 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
69. Coram: ADARSH KUMAR GOEL*, UDAY UMESH LALIT
    Summary: Transfer petition where the wife filed a domestic violence case at Hyderabad and the husband filed for divorce at Jabalpur.
    Decision Date: 09-03-2017 | Case No: TRANSFER PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 1912/2014 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
70. Coram: A.K. SIKRI*, R.K. AGRAWAL
    Summary: Criminal appeal involving allegations of domestic violence and an investigation by Social Services in the UK.
    Decision Date: 17-02-2017 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 717/2013 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
71. Coram: KURIAN JOSEPH, R.F. NARIMAN
    Summary: (Hiral Harsora v. Kusum Harsora*) Upheld the constitutional validity of Section 2(q) proviso of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 06-10-2016 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 10084/2016 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
72. Coram: DIPAK MISRA, SHIVA KIRTI SINGH
    Summary: (Prakash Dubal v. Meena Dubal*) Dismissed appeal concerning an application for maintenance under Sections 12, 18-22 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 22-04-2016 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 320/2016 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
73. Coram: A.K. SIKRI*, R.K. AGRAWAL
    Summary: Dismissed appeal in a case involving a petition/complaint under Section 9 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 18-04-2016 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 516/2016 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
74. Coram: DIPAK MISRA, PRAFULLA C. PANT
    Summary: (Krishna Bhatacharjee v. Sarathi Choudhury*) Allowed appeal concerning an application under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005, discussing the broad spectrum of “domestic violence”.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 20-11-2015 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1545/2015 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
75. Coram: J.S. KHEHAR*, ARUN MISHRA
    Summary: Uses the UK’s Domestic Violence and Matrimonial Proceedings Act 1976 as an example of strict construction of statutes.
    Decision Date: 01-07-2015 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 10643/2010 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
76. Coram: VIKRAMAJIT SEN*, ABHAY MANOHAR SAPRE
    Summary: Civil appeal where the respondent called police alleging domestic violence during a dispute.
    Decision Date: 24-04-2015 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 5511/2014 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
77. Coram: S. J. MUKHOPADHAYA*, S.A. BOBDE
    Summary: Interprets terms like ‘aggrieved person’ and ‘domestic relationship’ under the Domestic Violence Act. Notes that an act of domestic violence creates a continuing right to relief.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act.
    Decision Date: 18-09-2014 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2069/2014 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
78. Coram: F.M. IBRAHIM KALIFULLA, SHIVA KIRTI SINGH
    Summary: (Meena Chaudhary v. Commissioner of Delhi Police*) Relates to Sections 12, 18, 19 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 18-09-2014 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 8439/2009 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
79. Coram: S. J. MUKHOPADHAYA, KURIAN JOSEPH
    Summary: (Santosh Bakshi v. State of Punjab*) Discusses the duty of investigating agencies when a complaint is filed under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 30-06-2014 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1251/2014 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
80. Coram: S. J. MUKHOPADHAYA*, KURIAN JOSEPH
    Summary: Allowed appeal where the respondent had filed a complaint under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 09-05-2014 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1144/2014 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
81. Coram: K.S. RADHAKRISHNAN, PINAKI CHANDRA GHOSE
    Summary: (Indra Sarma v. V.K.V. Sarma*) Landmark case on whether a “live-in relationship” amounts to a “domestic relationship” under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 26-11-2013 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2009/2013 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
82. Coram: S. J. MUKHOPADHAYA, V. GOPALA GOWDA
    Summary: (Saraswathy v. Babu*) Allowed appeal concerning defiance of a court order under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005 and whether it amounts to ‘domestic violence’.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 25-11-2013 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1999/2013 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
83. Coram: RANJANA PRAKASH DESAI, A.K. SIKRI
    Summary: Criminal miscellaneous petition framing questions, including one related to the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 18-10-2013 | Case No: Criminal Miscellaneous Petition No. 8596/2013 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
84. Coram: S.S. NIJJAR, PINAKI CHANDRA GHOSE
    Summary: Dismissed appeal where a Parenting Plan was approved in a context involving domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 16-07-2013 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 934/2013 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
85. Coram: P. SATHASIVAM, RANJAN GOGOI
    Summary: (Deoki Panjhiyara v. Shashi Bhushan*) Allowed appeal in proceedings under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 12-12-2012 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2032/2012 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
86. Coram: RAJENDRA MAL LODHA*, ANIL R. DAVE, RANJAN GOGOI
    Summary: Writ petition urging laws to protect women from indignity and prevent all forms of violence, including domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 19-10-2012 | Case No: WRIT TO PETITION (CRIMINAL)… No. 173/1999 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 3 Judges
87. Coram: G.S. SINGHVI, S. J. MUKHOPADHAYA
    Summary: Allowed appeal where the wife had filed an application under Section 13(1) of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 12-03-2012 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 518/2012 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
88. Coram: ALTAMAS KABIR, JASTI CHELAMESWAR
    Summary: (V.D. Bhanot v. Savita Bhanot*) Special Leave Petition concerning a complaint of domestic violence under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 07-02-2012 | Case No: SPECIAL LEAVE PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 3916/2010 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
89. Coram: ALTAMAS KABIR*, S.S. NIJJAR, JASTI CHELAMESWAR
    Summary: Special Leave Petition where the complainant filed a case under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 14-12-2011 | Case No: SPECIAL LEAVE PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 5213/2010 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 3 Judges
90. Coram: P. SATHASIVAM*, B.S. CHAUHAN
    Summary: Allowed appeal in a case where a complaint was filed before police under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 23-08-2011 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1635/2011 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
91. Coram: ALTAMAS KABIR, CYRIAC JOSEPH
    Summary: (Sandhya Wankhade v. Manoj Wankhade*) Interpreted the expression under Section 2(q) proviso of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 31-01-2011 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 271/2011 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
92. Coram: AFTAB ALAM*, RAJENDRA MAL LODHA
    Summary: Stressed the need for fast-tracking criminal cases relating to offences including domestic violence.
    Decision Date: 14-01-2011 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 769/2006 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
93. Coram: MARKANDEY KATJU, T.S. THAKUR
    Summary: Allowed appeal and remitted matter, referencing the expression ‘domestic relationship’ under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 21-10-2010 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 2028/2010 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
94. Coram: G.S. SINGHVI*, A.K. GANGULY
    Summary: Referred questions to a larger bench, including one regarding the object of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 in relation to maintenance claims.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Hindu Marriage Act.
    Decision Date: 07-10-2010 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 8866/2010 | Disposal Nature: Matter referred to larger bench | Bench: 2 Judges
95. Coram: AFTAB ALAM*, B.S. CHAUHAN
    Summary: Dismissed a Special Leave Petition where the wife filed a petition under Section 12 read with Section 23 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
    Decision Date: 05-02-2010 | Case No: SPECIAL LEAVE PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 2954/2010 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges
96. Coram: ARIJIT PASAYAT*, A.K. GANGULY
    Summary: Transfer petition noting the wife filed a case under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 18-02-2009 | Case No: TRANSFER PETITION (CRIMINAL) No. 431/2008 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
97. Coram: ARIJIT PASAYAT*, MUKUNDAKAM SHARMA
    Summary: Writ petition on child rights, listing factors like domestic violence that inhibit children’s enjoyment of rights.
    Decision Date: 29-09-2008 | Case No: WRIT PETITION (CIVIL) No. 369/2008 | Disposal Nature: Disposed off | Bench: 2 Judges
98. Coram: S.B. SINHA*, V.S. SIRPURKAR
    Summary: Civil appeal mentioning the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act.
    Decision Date: 14-03-2008 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 2003/2008 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
99. Coram: S.B. SINHA, MARKANDEY KATJU
    Summary: (S.R. Batra v. Taruna Batra*) Landmark case interpreting Sections 2(s) and 17(1) of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 regarding ‘shared household’.
    Acts: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
    Decision Date: 15-12-2006 | Case No: CIVIL APPEAL No. 5837/2006 | Disposal Nature: Appeal(s) allowed | Bench: 2 Judges
100. Coram: DORAISWAMY RAJU*, H.K. SEMA
     Summary: Discusses instances of violence against women and children, including domestic violence and bride burning.
     Decision Date: 29-07-2003 | Case No: CRIMINAL APPEAL No. 1227/2002 | Disposal Nature: Dismissed | Bench: 2 Judges

Latest Supreme Court cases on domestic violence

• MCQs: Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (1st Set)
• Difference between a complaint u/s 2(d) of Cr.P.C and an Application u/s 12 of Domestic Violence Act
• Magistrate has the power to set aside an ex-parte order under the Domestic Violence Act