Pakistan Peoples Party MNA Dr Sharmila Faruqui has rejected social media claims about the domestic violence bill. She said the law does not criminalise staring or “ogling” at one’s wife.
The clarification came after the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Bill, 2025 was passed by Parliament. The bill was approved during a joint sitting held on Friday. The House also passed the Daanish Schools Authority Bill, 2025 on the same day.
Dr Faruqui moved the domestic violence bill in Parliament. The House rejected amendments proposed by JUI-F MNA Aliya Kamran and Senator Kamran Murtaza. However, amendments presented by Dr Faruqui herself were accepted.
Speaking on ARY News programme Bakhabar Savera, she said misinformation about the bill was spreading online. She stressed that no clause punishes a husband for staring at his wife. She added that many critics commented without reading the legislation.
Dr Faruqui said the law is not meant only for women. She explained that the domestic violence bill applies equally to men, elderly parents, and other vulnerable family members. She noted that abuse by children against parents is also covered under the law.
She further clarified that the bill also addresses situations where a woman behaves abusively toward a man at home. According to her, the law is designed to protect anyone facing domestic abuse.
Addressing another concern, she explained the difference between stalking and ogling. She said stalking is a punishable offence under the law, but it does not mean staring.
She defined stalking as repeated, controlling, or obsessive behaviour that creates fear or mental stress. Such actions may occur at home or the workplace. She added that stalking can be committed by a husband, brother, or brother-in-law.
Dr Faruqui suggested that backlash against the bill may come from those fearing accountability. She urged the public to read the law carefully before forming opinions.
She concluded by saying accurate information is necessary so the law is understood correctly and implemented fairly.
In other news read more about: Domestic Violence Protection Bill For Men And Women Passed By Parliament
