Today, On 18th February, The Supreme Court criticized states and Union Territories for failing to submit status reports on implementing the Domestic Violence Act. Expressing strong disapproval, the court emphasized the need for accountability in protecting victims’ rights. It directed authorities to ensure proper enforcement and support mechanisms for affected individuals. The bench warned of serious consequences for continued non-compliance.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court criticized several states and union territories for failing to submit status reports regarding the implementation of the domestic violence law.
The court granted them an additional four weeks to comply, contingent upon a payment of Rs 5,000 as costs.
A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and Prasanna B Varale noted that many states and union territories had not filed their reports despite previous directives.
The bench stated,
“The counsel for the respective states have sought for some more time to file status reports. Hence, four more weeks are granted to file status reports subject to payment of cost of Rs 5,000 to the Supreme Court mediation centre.”
The bench identified Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Odisha, Telangana, West Bengal, and Assam among the defaulters.
Union Territories such as Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and Lakshadweep also failed to submit the required reports.
Justice Nagarathna warned,
“Pay cost of Rs 5,000 and file it. If you don’t file it, next time it will double.”
The case has been scheduled for a hearing on March 25.
In a prior order on December 2, 2024, the Supreme Court mandated that status reports be filed regarding the implementation of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. The deadline for submission was previously extended to February 14.
During a hearing in November, the Supreme Court emphasized that the responsibility for implementing the law lies not only with the central government but also with the respective state governments.
The petition sought directives for the effective enforcement of the 2005 Act, including adequate appointments, notification, establishment of protection officers, service providers, and shelter homes, as well as the initiation of awareness campaigns about crimes against women.
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