How does the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act apply to me in Kolkata?

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is a comprehensive legislation designed to protect women from violence in domestic relationships. In Kolkata, the Act applies to women in a domestic relationship with the respondent, including wives, live-in partners, mothers, daughters, and sisters. The Calcutta High Court has interpreted the Act broadly to include various forms of abuse beyond physical violence, such as economic abuse and verbal abuse. West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 may prescribe the procedure for appointment of Protection Officers and registration of service providers. You can seek reliefs such as protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief, custody orders, and compensation. The Magistrate can pass ex parte orders in urgent cases to prevent further violence. The Act operates in addition to and not in derogation of any other law for the time being in force.