This article explores the critical role of police in enforcing the Protection of
Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) of 2005 and delivering justice to
victims of domestic violence. Utilizing a qualitative approach that integrates
both empirical and doctrinal methods, the study identifies the specific
responsibilities of law enforcement under the PWDVA. It assesses both the legal
obligations of police and their practical execution while addressing obstacles
such as societal stigma, lack of resources, and insufficient training that
impede effective enforcement.
The article advocates for necessary systemic
improvements and highlights initiatives aimed at enhancing police responsiveness
through collaboration with key stakeholders, including protection officers,
NGOs, and the judiciary. The PWDVA recognizes various forms of abuse-physical,
emotional, sexual, verbal, and economic-and promotes an integrated approach of
civil and criminal measures for women's protection.
It outlines the pivotal
duties of police in complaint registration, Domestic Incident Reports (DIRs)
preparation, and enforcement of protective court orders. Emphasizing
gender-sensitive policing, improved training, increased female representation,
and community policing initiatives, the article ultimately seeks to foster
meaningful change in the lives of domestic violence survivors.
Introduction:
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) of 2005 establishes
an extensive legal structure aimed at safeguarding women against the widespread
problem of domestic violence in India. This legislation empowers women to seek
protection from abusive relationships and provides various legal remedies to
ensure their safety and well-being. A crucial aspect of the Act is the role of
the police, who are responsible for implementing its provisions effectively.
They must respond promptly to complaints, enforce protection orders, and
facilitate the legal processes necessary for a fair resolution. By ensuring that
victims receive adequate support and justice, the police play an integral role
in upholding the rights of women and fostering a safer environment free from
violence and intimidation.
Literature Review: Police Responsibilities Under the PWDVA:
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) assigns
substantial responsibilities to the police, urging them to serve as protectors
and enforcers of justice for women encountering domestic violence. This
literature review explores current research, legal analyses, and critical
evaluations of police duties as defined by the Act, emphasizing their essential
role in combatting domestic violence while also addressing the obstacles that
hinder effective implementation.
Chakraborty (2016) highlights the proactive role of police in filing Domestic
Incident Reports (DIRs) and enforcing court orders in liaison with protection
officers. Menon (2012) notes a deficit of gender-sensitive training of police
officers which is apparent in their handling of domestic violence cases. Kumar,
et al. (2018) pay particular attention to the fact that police response is quite
often late as such institution and individual cases falling under the PWDVA are
not given due consideration.
Bhatnagar (2021) recommends mandatory gender sensitization training and
workshops with regular periodicity, specifically for police officers. Gupta and
Roy (2022) provide recommendations for using technology such as e-DIR
submissions and coordination platforms to connect these processes. Singh (2020)
discusses court observations regarding the responsibility of police in upholding
Protection Orders that are issued under the Act.
Sharma et al. (2015) discovered that urban police stations had superior
equipment and training for managing domestic violence cases, whereas rural
regions faced challenges due to limited awareness and resources. Desai (2019)
points out that urban police are more inclined to work alongside NGOs and
protection officers, which improves the effectiveness of the Act's provisions.
The PWDVA delineates specific duties for police officers in Sections 5 and 9,
which include registering complaints, preparing Domestic Incident Reports (DIRs),
and aiding victims in accessing protection officers, medical facilities, and
shelters. According to Singh (2018), the Act redefines the police's role from
simply enforcing the law to actively facilitating protection and justice,
necessitating a change in how they approach domestic violence situations.
Research highlights the pivotal position of police as the first contact for
victims of domestic violence. An analysis by Sharma and Gupta (2020) underscores
the significance of prompt police intervention, indicating that officers often
influence victims' feelings of support or alienation. Their findings suggest
that the initial response by police can substantially impact a victim's
willingness to seek legal recourse and utilize support services.
Despite the responsibilities outlined in the PWDVA, studies reveal numerous
challenges police face in fulfilling their roles. Rao (2017) notes a prevalent
lack of awareness and training among officers about the Act's provisions, which
can lead to slow responses and poor case handling. Additionally, Desai (2019)
addresses societal biases and systemic problems that prevent police from
addressing domestic violence with the necessary sensitivity and urgency.
The PWDVA promotes a collaborative approach involving protection officers, NGOs,
and the judicial system. Singh and Kaur (2021) stress that the police must
effectively coordinate with these groups to ensure victims receive comprehensive
support. However, Basu (2020) highlights that communication gaps and unclear
role definitions often create challenges.
It is vital to train police personnel in gender sensitivity and the PWDVA's
provisions. A report by the National Crime Records Bureau (2021) illustrates
that specialized training programs can significantly enhance police responses to
domestic violence cases. Nevertheless, studies indicate inconsistency in the
implementation of such programs, leading to varying levels of enforcement of the
Act.
Several effective practices have been identified to improve police
responsiveness under the PWDVA. For example, Joshi (2019) discusses community
policing approaches that have proven successful in building trust and
encouraging victims to seek help. Moreover, increasing the representation of
women in police forces is recognized as a promising strategy for addressing
gender-specific challenges in domestic violence cases (Saxena, 2022).
Objective of the PWDVA:
The PWDVA marks a crucial step forward in Indian legislation, addressing the
pervasive problem of domestic violence. This law was established to provide
prompt and efficient support for women facing abuse, recognizing multiple types
of violence such as physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, and economic
mistreatment. Unlike previous laws that primarily classified domestic violence
as a criminal offence, the PWDVA adopts a more comprehensive approach by
integrating both civil remedies and criminal provisions.
It empowers affected women to pursue protection orders, residence orders,
financial relief, child custody, and compensation. The Act stresses the
importance of swift actions and collaborative efforts between diverse entities,
such as police, protection officers, service providers, and the judiciary, thus
establishing a thorough framework for protecting women's rights in domestic
settings.
Definition of Domestic Violence under Section 3 of the PWDVA:
Section 3 of the PWDVA provides a comprehensive definition of domestic violence,
describing it as any action, neglect, or behaviour that endangers a woman's
safety, well-being, or dignity. This definition includes not only physical harm
but also emotional, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse, recognizing the
multifaceted nature of women's suffering in domestic environments. Importantly,
the Act encompasses threats and coercive behaviour that undermine a woman's
autonomy. By recognizing both overt and subtle forms of abuse, the Act broadens
its approach from purely punitive measures to a commitment to protecting women's
rights and dignity.
Types of Violence: Physical, Emotional, Sexual, Verbal, and Economic:
The PWDVA identifies various categories of domestic violence to highlight the
different ways in which women may be harmed. Physical violence entails actions
that cause bodily harm, such as hitting, beating, or assault, which are
typically the most apparent forms of abuse. Emotional and verbal abuse, while
less visible, are equally detrimental and include behaviours such as habitual
criticism, insults, humiliation, and social isolation, all intended to undermine
a woman's self-worth. Sexual abuse encompasses coerced sexual activities,
humiliating treatment, or withholding reproductive rights, illustrating how
intimacy can be exploited as a means of control.
Economic abuse, an often-overlooked form of violence, involves restricting
access to financial resources, denying property or employment opportunities, and
exerting control over financial decisions, ultimately trapping women in economic
dependency and vulnerability. By classifying these different types of violence,
the Act emphasizes the necessity for a comprehensive approach to addressing
domestic violence, ensuring that victims have access to appropriate legal
remedies and support tailored to their unique experiences of abuse.
Responsibilities of Police Under the PWDVA:
The police play a critical role in the effective implementation of the PWDVA,
serving as the primary point of contact for many domestic violence victims.
Their responsibilities extend beyond simply recording complaints; they assist
victims in navigating legal and support services outlined in the Act, including
filing Domestic Incident Reports, obtaining medical care, and connecting with
protection officers or shelters. Quick and compassionate responses help link
victims to the judicial process.
Additionally, law enforcement is essential in enforcing court orders related to
protection and residence, ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected
by domestic violence, as well as executing warrants against individuals who
violate these orders. However, their effectiveness hinges on factors such as
awareness of gender issues, comprehensive knowledge of the PWDVA, and access to
adequate resources and training to address the unique challenges these cases
present.
As outlined in Section 5 of the PWDVA, police officers, protection officers,
service providers, or magistrates who receive a complaint about domestic
violence or are present at the scene of such an incident must inform the
affected individual of their rights. This includes the right to apply for
various forms of relief, such as a protection order, monetary compensation,
custody arrangements, or residence orders, as well as the option to seek
multiple orders under the Act.
Moreover, these officials are required to notify the affected individual
regarding the support services offered by both service providers and protection
officers. They should also inform her about her eligibility for free legal
assistance under the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987, as well as her
right to lodge a complaint according to Section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code,
which is now referred to as Section 84 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita of 2023,
if applicable. It is essential to emphasize that this Act does not relieve
police officers from their duty to take legal action upon becoming aware of a
cognizable offence.
Under Section 9 of the PWDVA, the officer-in-charge of a police station holds
several key responsibilities. Firstly, they must ensure the timely receipt and
action on the Domestic Incident Report prepared by the protection officer.
Coordination with the protection officer and Magistrate is essential to
implement appropriate legal and protective measures for the aggrieved
individual.
Additionally, the officer is responsible for verifying the availability of a
safe shelter for the victim and monitoring her safety. Immediate action is
required to facilitate medical assistance for any injuries sustained by the
aggrieved person, with a mandate to submit the medical report to the relevant
Magistrate. The officer must also maintain detailed records of all case-related
documents and ensure compliance with the Magistrate's orders while providing
vital support and protection to prioritize the victim's safety and well-being
throughout the process.
Section 19 of the PWDVA outlines critical duties for the officer-in-charge of a
police station aimed at protecting aggrieved individuals. This includes ensuring
the safety of the aggrieved person as directed by the Magistrate during the
enforcement of residence orders, assisting with their implementation, and
facilitating the respondent's compliance with any financial obligations.
Additionally, the officer must maintain regular communication with the
Magistrate regarding orders, address compliance issues, implement protection
orders within their jurisdiction, and meticulously document all related actions.
These responsibilities underscore the vital role of police in effectively
enforcing residence orders to safeguard victims of domestic violence. Sections
19(5) and 19(7) empower the Magistrate to direct any police officer to assist
the court in executing the various orders issued for the benefit of the
aggrieved woman, as well as to request police assistance whenever necessary.
In addition to these duties, the police are responsible for filing Domestic
Incident Reports (DIRs) that document instances of domestic violence. This
formal record is crucial for ensuring that the cases are taken seriously and
tracked appropriately within the legal system. Moreover, if the aggrieved person
requires medical assistance, it is the police's duty to help her obtain the
necessary medical aid.
This comprehensive support system is designed not only to address the immediate
needs of victims but also to foster a sense of safety and security as they
navigate the aftermath of domestic violence. Through these measures, police
officers play a pivotal role in upholding the provisions of the PWDVA and
contributing to the protection and welfare of women facing such distressing
circumstances.
Police as the First Responders:
As the primary responders to incidents of domestic violence, police play a
crucial role in addressing complaints related to this sensitive issue. It is
essential to provide comprehensive training and sensitization for police
personnel to ensure they approach these cases with empathy and understanding.
This involves equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate the emotional
complexities surrounding domestic violence and to support victims effectively.
Furthermore, the police must prioritize the safety of the complainant by taking
immediate and decisive action to protect them from further harm, thereby
instilling confidence in the justice system and fostering a safer environment
for those affected by such incidents.
According to the PWDVA, police officers are required to help victims of domestic
violence by quickly addressing their complaints, helping them obtain protection
orders, and collaborating with protection officers and the judiciary to
safeguard the well-being of those affected. The proactive measures taken by
police in these circumstances are crucial for the prompt and efficient
implementation of the legal protections available to victims.
Implementing the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA)
poses significant challenges for police officers, primarily due to inadequate
training and awareness of the law's provisions. Many officers are unfamiliar
with their responsibilities, such as informing victims of their rights and
assisting them in filing Domestic Incident Reports (DIRs) and protection orders.
A 2019 report from the Centre for Women's Justice revealed that a lack of
sensitivity results in law enforcement perceiving domestic violence as a private
matter, which diminishes their intervention efforts and endangers victims.
Furthermore, police departments often fail to adhere to established protocols by
not collaborating with protection officers (POs) or providing essential services
like shelter and legal support. A 2021 study by the National Commission for
Women highlighted the insufficient resources at police stations to effectively
address domestic violence cases.
Investigative shortcomings, including neglecting to collect evidence or
interview witnesses, further undermine the PWDVA's effectiveness; a 2020
analysis by the Human Rights Law Network pointed out that many cases lack
thorough investigation due to biases and a failure to recognize the gravity of
domestic violence. Additionally, the absence of a gender-sensitive approach
within police forces may lead to victim-blaming, which discourages women from
seeking legal recourse.
Challenges Faced by Police:
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) of 2005 represented a
significant step forward in promoting women's rights in India. Despite this
progress, the successful enforcement of the legislation encounters numerous
challenges that law enforcement agencies must address to ensure effective
protection for victims.
One of the primary obstacles to implementing the PWDVA is the lack of adequate
training for police officers dealing with domestic violence cases. Many officers
are not sufficiently versed in the provisions of the law, which can result in a
failure to recognize the complexity of emotional and psychological abuse in
addition to physical violence. This issue is particularly pronounced in rural
and marginalized communities, where understanding of these nuances is often
limited.
Compounding this challenge are prevailing societal attitudes and gender biases
that influence how police officers respond to domestic violence incidents.
Officers may display scepticism towards women who report abuse, especially in
scenarios involving family members. Such prejudices can contribute to
underreporting of incidents and a lack of appropriate intervention, ultimately
diminishing the urgency and effectiveness of police response.
Moreover, logistical constraints and resource shortages within police
departments can hinder timely action. Many law enforcement agencies face
personnel shortages, and inadequate facilities, leading to delays in processing
Domestic Incident Reports and protection orders. This situation is especially
problematic in rural areas, leaving victims vulnerable and exposed to further
abuse.
Inconsistencies in the application of the PWDVA across various regions add
another layer of complexity to the situation. Urban areas may boast better
resources and more effective implementation, while rural regions often struggle
with significant shortcomings. The lack of adequate follow-up and monitoring of
cases further diminishes the effectiveness of the law and underscores the urgent
need for comprehensive reforms.
To enhance the protective capabilities of the PWDVA, it is essential to invest
in targeted police training and resource allocation. Increasing awareness of
gender-sensitive policing approaches can enable police officers to handle
domestic violence cases with the seriousness and urgency they demand.
The challenges faced by police extend beyond training deficiencies. Victims
frequently hesitate to report incidents due to fears of societal stigma or
retaliation from their abusers, which complicates law enforcement's ability to
intervene effectively. This hesitation is exacerbated by inadequate resources, a
limited number of officers, and insufficient transportation options for
responding to emergencies.
Additionally, the dearth of secure and well-established shelter homes for
victims creates further barriers. Poor coordination with protection officers and
non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and ignorance about service providers
complicates police efforts to provide vital support to those in need. Officers
often find themselves torn between strict law enforcement and the desire to
pursue reconciliation in domestic cases, complicating their decision-making
process.
Ultimately, these interconnected issues create significant barriers to effective
policing and justice for victims of domestic violence. To address these
challenges comprehensively, a multi-faceted approach that includes improved
training, resource enhancement, and a commitment to gender-sensitive practices
is essential. Only then can the PWDVA fulfil its promise of safeguarding women's
rights and ensuring their protection from domestic violence.
Police Role in Enforcement of Court Orders:
The police play an essential role in enforcing court orders, which includes
carrying out protection, residence, and custody mandates. They are also
responsible for executing arrest warrants against those who have breached these
legal directives. This function is crucial for upholding public safety and
ensuring that violators encounter appropriate consequences for their actions.
Beyond implementing court orders, police collaborate closely with the judiciary
and various stakeholders to strengthen legal compliance. This partnership
improves their capacity to effectively manage maintenance and monetary relief
orders, ensuring that individuals obligated by these requirements adhere to
them. By working together, they enhance the enforcement process and promote
accountability within the community.
These cooperative efforts help preserve the rule of law by ensuring that
judicial decisions are respected and implemented within the community. Such
collaboration is vital for fostering a legal environment that reinforces the
authority of the courts.
Through their support and protection, as dictated by judicial rulings, the
police contribute to a community where individuals feel secure and empowered by
the legal safeguards provided by the court system.
Court Judgments:
Thurman v. City of Torrington (1985) is a pivotal case in the U.S. that
highlighted issues of domestic violence and police accountability. Tracy Thurman
filed a lawsuit against the City of Torrington, Connecticut, after its police
department failed to protect her from ongoing abuse by her estranged husband,
Charles Thurman, despite her multiple reports and restraining orders. After
suffering serious injuries in an attack, Tracy's case brought attention to the
police's neglect in enforcing protective measures.
The court concluded that the police had violated Tracy's equal protection rights
under the 14th Amendment by not acting on the restraining orders. This ruling
affirmed that law enforcement has a constitutional responsibility to safeguard
individuals from private violence, particularly when aware of the threat. As a
result, the case prompted major reforms in domestic violence legislation across
the U.S., including mandatory arrest policies, enhanced police training, and
improved response protocols, fundamentally changing how law enforcement
addresses domestic abuse and underscoring the necessity of police
accountability.
An Indian ruling that deals with police accountability in the context of
domestic violence cases, similar to the U.S. case of Thurman v. City of
Torrington (1985), is the Shambhu Prasad Singh vs. Manjari case, which was
decided by the Delhi High Court on May 17, 2012. In its decision, the court
highlighted the essential need for timely police intervention and effective
coordination with protection officers, as required by the Protection of Women
from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005.
The judgment underscored the necessity for prompt police action to safeguard
victims and ensure their well-being, emphasizing the responsibility of law
enforcement to uphold the law's provisions. This case holds considerable
significance in India as it aligns with Thurman's focus on police accountability
and the importance of proactive measures in tackling domestic violence.
In the case of
R v. R.D. (2018), the Ontario Court of Appeal examined mandatory
charging policies in domestic violence incidents, focusing on the police's
obligation to lay charges even when the victim is hesitant to cooperate. The
court underscored the significance of these policies in holding domestic
violence perpetrators accountable, emphasizing that the interests of public
safety and the prosecution of such offenses can take precedence over a victim's
preferences.
This ruling reaffirms the critical role of law enforcement in addressing
domestic violence, prioritizing victim protection within the legal framework. It
also contributes to the broader discourse on the enforcement of domestic
violence laws in Canada, highlighting the delicate balance between respecting
victim autonomy and ensuring public safety, as well as the ongoing discussions
regarding the effectiveness and consequences of mandatory charging policies in
tackling intimate partner violence.
The United Kingdom court ruling in the case of R (on the application of DSD and
another) v. Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis (2018) underscores the
essential responsibility of police in safeguarding domestic violence victims.
The ruling highlighted the need for law enforcement to respond promptly to
reports of domestic violence, conduct thorough and unbiased investigations, take
necessary measures to shield victims from further harm, and collaborate with
other agencies like social services and victim support organizations to provide
holistic support.
This landmark case reinforces the critical role of effective policing in not
only preventing domestic violence but also ensuring the safety and well-being of
those affected, reminding officers of their duty to act with diligence and
compassion towards vulnerable individuals.
Recommendation:
Police officers frequently commit significant errors when addressing cases under
the PWDVA 2005 due to inadequate training, insufficient personnel and resources,
a shortage of female officers, deep-rooted social biases, and flaws in
procedures. They often minimize domestic violence reports, dismissing them as
simple "family matters," which erodes victims' trust and deters them from
seeking help. Furthermore, the absence of gender-sensitization training can
result in insensitive questioning that may exacerbate the victim's trauma.
Typical mistakes include unempathetic and disrespectful responses, a lack of
knowledge regarding their duties, insufficient compassion, poor handling of
Domestic Incident Reports (DIRs), and delays in connecting victims with
protection officers or shelters, as there is a greater emphasis on criminal
complaints rather than civil remedies. These procedural deficiencies
collectively reduce the effectiveness of the law in aiding victims to flee
abusive circumstances.
Community policing plays a vital role in addressing domestic violence as
outlined in the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), by
emphasizing the importance of building trust between law enforcement and the
community. When police actively engage with local residents, they can more
effectively identify women and families at risk, raise awareness of available
legal protections, and foster an environment where victims feel encouraged to
report abuse without the fear of stigma or retaliation.
To bolster this effort, collaboration between police initiatives and
non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can significantly enhance the support
network available for victims. NGOs are typically well-equipped with the
expertise and resources needed to provide counselling, legal assistance,
shelter, and rehabilitation services, thereby complementing the actions of law
enforcement. Establishing dedicated domestic violence response teams consisting
of police officers and NGO representatives ensures a coordinated approach to
managing complaints, assisting victims, and effectively implementing court
orders.
The success of the PWDVA depends largely on the police's ability to respond
sensitively and efficiently to instances of domestic violence. Comprehensive
training is essential for all police officers, covering the legal,
psychological, and sociocultural aspects of domestic violence. This training
program should incorporate role-play scenarios, survivor interactions, and
expert insights to foster empathy and instil a victim-centred approach.
Ongoing refresher courses are equally crucial, as they keep officers updated on
changes in legislation, key court rulings, and best practices. For example,
specialized workshops focusing on economic or emotional- issues that are often
misunderstood- can enhance police skills in these critical areas. Furthermore,
training must emphasize the importance of prompt submission of Domestic Incident
Reports (DIRs), collaboration with protection officers, and the efficient
enforcement of protection orders.
Increasing the number of women officers in the police force can greatly improve
responses to domestic violence incidents. Female victims frequently feel more
comfortable sharing their experiences with female officers, especially in cases
involving sexual or emotional abuse. By increasing the representation of women
in the police-particularly in roles that directly tackle domestic violence-a
more supportive and approachable environment can be cultivated for victims.
Initiatives like creating women-only help desks in police stations and
recruiting female officers for domestic violence units can help achieve this
goal.
Moreover, including women officers in training and policy development concerning
domestic violence can yield valuable insights that enhance law enforcement's
effectiveness under the PWDVA. Empowering women within the police force not only
promotes gender equity but also strategically addresses the unique challenges
posed by domestic violence cases.
Standardized shelter homes that are equipped with adequate security measures are
essential for victims of domestic violence, providing a safe haven where
individuals can rebuild their lives without fear. These shelters serve as
immediate sanctuaries, protecting victims from further harm while addressing
their physical and emotional needs. Robust security protocols, including
surveillance systems and trained staff, are critical in safeguarding these
facilities and ensuring victims feel secure from their abusers.
Additionally, well-equipped shelters that offer vital amenities contribute to
the dignity and stability of survivors. Providing access to counselling, legal
support, and skill-development programs empowers individuals, supporting their
transition towards independence. To maintain equitable standards of care and
accessibility, it is important to address the resource disparities between urban
and rural areas.
Conversely, shelters that are either insufficient or poorly maintained can
hinder the recovery process for victims, making them more susceptible to
repeated incidents of abuse. Consequently, it becomes essential to prioritize
investments in safe and standardized shelter homes. This approach not only
serves as a vital strategy for effectively tackling the issue of domestic
violence but also significantly contributes to the long-term healing and
well-being of survivors.
Conclusion:
The police are vital in upholding justice under the Protection of Women from
Domestic Violence Act, 2005, serving as the primary responders and a key
connection between victims and the legal system. Their capacity to respond to
complaints with sensitivity, connect victims with protection officers, enforce
judicial orders, and collaborate with organizations like NGOs greatly enhances
the Act's effectiveness. Nonetheless, systemic reforms are needed to close
existing gaps, which include improved training, better resource distribution,
and enhanced collaboration with community stakeholders.
Strengthening the response framework through initiatives like community
policing, gender sensitivity training, and increasing the representation of
women in law enforcement can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment
for victims. Looking forward, the incorporation of technology, ongoing public
awareness initiatives, and cooperative efforts amongst police, judiciary, and
civil society are crucial to ensuring that the PWDVA delivers on its commitment
to creating a safe and just environment for women.
References:
- Basu, A. (2020). Addressing the challenges in coordinating stakeholder roles under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA). Indian Journal of Social Work, 81(3), 310-329.
- Desai, R. (2019). Exploring systemic barriers in domestic violence reporting from the perspective of law enforcement. Journal of Law and Society, 42(4), 567-584.
- Joshi, P. (2019). Advocating for reforms in community policing to better address domestic violence. Journal of Crime Prevention, 35(2), 140-159.
- National Crime Records Bureau. (2021). Evaluating the impact of training programs on police responsiveness to cases of domestic violence. Annual Report.
- Rao, S. (2017). Analysing challenges in policing domestic violence under the PWDVA. Indian Journal of Legal Studies, 12(1), 45-72.
- Saxena, M. (2022). Examining the contributions of women police officers in combating domestic violence. Gender and Law Review, 9(2), 78-91.
- Sharma, R., & Gupta, P. (2020). An empirical study on the role of police as first responders in domestic violence situations. Journal of Policing and Society, 14(3), 267-287.
- Singh, A. (2018). Clarifying police responsibilities within the framework of the PWDVA. Law and Justice Review, 13(1), 34-50.
- Singh, P., & Kaur, N. (2021). Strategies for enhancing collaboration among stakeholders in implementing the PWDVA. Indian Law Journal, 28(4), 480-495.
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- Chakraborty, S. (2016). A legal perspective on police involvement in domestic violence incidents. Indian Journal of Law and Policy.
- Menon, N. (2012). Strategies for promoting gender sensitivity in policing and addressing domestic violence. Journal of Social Justice.
- Kumar, A., Reddy, M., & Das, P. (2018). Examining enforcement issues related to the PWDVA and the role of law enforcement agencies. Indian Journal of Criminology.
- Singh, R. (2020). Analysing judicial interpretations of the PWDVA and the police's role in ensuring compliance. Delhi Law Review.
- Sharma, R., Patel, V., & Mehta, S. (2015). A comparative study of domestic violence policing practices in urban versus rural contexts. Journal of Social Studies.
- Desai, K. (2019). Investigating the application of the PWDVA to combat domestic violence in rural India. Indian Review of Sociology.
- Bhatnagar, A. (2021). Progressing toward gender-sensitive policing in India by addressing existing gaps. Police Quarterly.
- Gupta, P., & Roy, N. (2022). Leveraging technology to enhance police response in domestic violence cases. Technology and Society Review.
- Role of Police in the Implementation of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 - Md. Imran Wahab, IPS - IJFMR Volume 6, Issue 6, November-December 2024.
Written By: Md.Imran Wahab, IPS, IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal
Email:
[email protected], Ph no: 9836576565
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