The Role Of Police In Domestic Violence Cases: Examining Response Protocols And Victim Support In India

Chanchal Sharma, National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar

ABSTRACT

Indian response to domestic violence by police is changing with response protocols, support mechanisms, and the resultant impact of recent legislative reforms. Traditionally, domestic violence was managed under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which criminalized cruelty by husbands and in-laws but focused more on punitive measures than on providing comprehensive support to the victim. Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) 2005 approached the more protective, victim- centred model by introducing civil remedies such as protection orders, residence rights, and financial support. The bill enhanced the role of the police in making its efforts more informed and assisting the victim in gaining access to social and legal services.

In fact, the latest amendments to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have strengthened police procedures. Such provisions as Zero FIR and e-FIR allow complaint filings across jurisdictions and online. Audio-video recording of victim statements lends additional transparency and reduces manipulations. The witness protection schemes and fixed timelines in investigations support safety and efficiency in judicial procedure.

This stream of legislative changes reveals an Indian intent to be more or less a victim-oriented approach by ensuring more accountability on the perpetrator's side and a strong safeguard for the survivor. When technology is integrated and practices are improved in police and transparency, it victim- centered policing will provide arms for the survivor of domestic violence, help her take on it using this right tool to seek redress and rebuild her life.

Keywords: Domestic violence, Police protocols, Victim support, Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Indian Penal code.