Under the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013 of Sindh, Protection Officers play a vital role in the prevention and management of domestic violence cases, however in reality, the Sindh Government has failed to implement the provisions ss. 21 & 19 regarding establishing Protection Committees and Protection Officers. KSJ Legal has filed a Public Interest Litigation before the Sindh High Court which is pending adjudication. Notices have been sent and a response has been received from the Government stating that it has no funds to give effect to the Act 2013 following which the Court sought data from the Authority. Nevertheless, KSJ Legal is committed in its mission to secure favorable outcome in this case to ensure that 26 million women of Sindh Province are protected from this menace of domestic violence. 

 

To understand what Protection Committees are, here’s an overview of their roles, responsibilities, and criteria for formation: Here are their key duties and responsibilities:

 

 

1. Assistance to Aggrieved Persons:

 

   – Filing Applications: Protection Officers assist aggrieved persons in filing applications for obtaining protection orders, monetary relief, and other forms of legal relief as specified under the Act.

 

   – Preparation of Reports: They prepare and submit domestic incident reports to the Protection Committee upon receiving a complaint of domestic violence. These reports are also forwarded to service providers within the jurisdiction.

 

   – Legal Aid: Ensuring that the aggrieved person receives legal aid, including helping them to understand their rights and the legal remedies available.

 

2. Medical and Shelter Assistance:

 

   – Medical Examination: Arranging for the medical examination of the aggrieved person if they have sustained bodily injuries. They forward the medical reports to the Protection Committee.

 

   – Shelter Arrangements: Making arrangements for the aggrieved person to reside in a safe shelter home if needed, and forwarding reports of such lodging to the relevant authorities.

 

3. Coordination with Service Providers:

 

   – Maintaining Records: Keeping a list of all service providers offering legal aid, counseling, shelter homes, and medical facilities within the jurisdiction.

 

   – Facilitating Services: Ensuring that the aggrieved person can access these services as needed.

 

4. Compliance and Enforcement:

 

   – Monetary Relief Compliance: Ensuring compliance with court orders for monetary relief to the aggrieved person. This includes ensuring that payments are made as ordered by the court.

   – Follow-Up: Performing follow-up duties as prescribed by the Act to ensure the ongoing protection and support of the aggrieved person.

 

5. Record Keeping and Reporting:

 

   – Incident Records: Keeping official records of domestic violence incidents, the assistance offered, and any actions taken by the Protection Committee.

 

   – Documentation: Documenting reasons for inaction if the Protection Committee decides not to take action on a reported incident, and maintaining records of service providers from whom the aggrieved person sought help.

 

These roles and responsibilities are crucial for the effective implementation of the Act and to ensure the safety and well-being of victims of domestic violence in Sindh.