Sindh

In Sindh, under the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013, the role of the Magistrate includes:

1. Issuing Protection Orders: Magistrates are empowered to issue protection orders to prevent further acts of domestic violence. These orders can restrict the abuser from contacting the victim, visiting their home or workplace, or committing any act of violence.
2. Monetary Relief and Compensation: Magistrates can order the abuser to provide monetary relief to the victim to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, and other financial needs.
3. Custody Orders: They can grant temporary custody of children to the aggrieved person or another suitable individual.
4. Residence Orders: Magistrates can issue residence orders that allow the victim to remain in their shared household and restrict the abuser from entering or staying in the household.
5. Enforcement: Magistrates oversee the enforcement of these orders and can take action against any breaches, which are considered serious offenses  .

Punjab

In Punjab, the Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act, 2016 outlines the role of Magistrates as follows:

1. Issuing Various Orders: Magistrates can issue protection orders, residence orders, and monetary orders to safeguard the victims of domestic violence.
2. Monitoring and Evaluation: They are involved in the supervision and evaluation of protection centers and shelter homes to ensure effective service delivery.
3. Liaison and Coordination: Magistrates coordinate with other departments and agencies to facilitate the provision of necessary services to victims.
4. Enforcement and Compliance: Ensuring the compliance with and enforcement of issued orders, and taking action against violations  .

Balochistan

In Balochistan, the Balochistan Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2014 specifies the Magistrate’s duties, which include:

1. Issuing Protection Orders: Magistrates can issue orders to prevent further abuse, ensuring the victim’s safety and well-being.
2. Monetary and Residence Orders: They can grant monetary relief for expenses incurred due to domestic violence and issue residence orders to allow the victim to stay in their home.
3. Enforcement: Ensuring that protection orders are enforced, and taking legal action against breaches, which are punishable offenses.
4. Counseling and Mediation: Magistrates can direct parties to undergo counseling and attempt mediation if it is deemed appropriate and safe   .

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)

In KPK, the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2021 outlines similar roles for Magistrates:

1. Issuing Protection and Residence Orders: Magistrates can issue orders to protect the victim from further violence and allow them to remain in their home.
2. Monetary Relief: They can order financial support for the victim to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, and other needs.
3. Temporary Custody Orders: Granting temporary custody of children to the victim or another suitable individual.
4. Monitoring and Enforcement: Ensuring that orders are followed and taking action against any violations, which are considered serious offenses.

In all these regions, Magistrates play a crucial role in providing immediate legal protection to victims of domestic violence, ensuring their safety, and facilitating their access to necessary resources and support.