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Domestic Violence: Laws, Rights, and the Complaint Procedure You Need to Know
H.B.M. Priyadarshani Lakdasa
Coordinating Secretary
Human Rights Protection Organization (HRPO)
Domestic violence is not only a serious issue in Sri Lanka but also a grave human rights concern across the world. A home should be a place of safety, love, and dignity; however, for many individuals, it has become a place of fear, abuse, and violence.
Domestic violence does not affect only women. Children, older persons, persons with disabilities, and men may also become victims. Every individual has the right to legal protection under the laws of Sri Lanka.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence refers to physical, psychological, sexual, verbal, or economic abuse committed by a family member or a person in a close personal relationship against another individual.
Main Forms of Domestic Violence
1. Physical Violence
* Assault and physical attacks
* Pushing or shoving
* Causing bodily injuries
* Strangulation
* Use of weapons
1. Psychological and Verbal Abuse
* Intimidation
* Threatening behaviour
* Insults and humiliation
* Continuous emotional degradation
1. Sexual Violence
* Forcing a person into sexual acts without consent
* Sexual harassment and abuse
1. Economic Abuse
* Withholding financial support
* Preventing a person from engaging in employment
* Controlling property, income, or financial resources
1. Social Isolation
* Preventing contact with friends or relatives
* Restricting freedom of movement or leaving the home
Relevant Laws in Sri Lanka
1. Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, No. 34 of 2005
This Act provides victims of domestic violence with the legal right to obtain a Protection Order from a competent court to safeguard themselves from further abuse.
1. Penal Code of Sri Lanka
Acts such as assault, causing grievous hurt, sexual offences, criminal intimidation, and death threats constitute criminal offences punishable under the Penal Code.
1. Assistance to and Protection of Victims of Crime and Witnesses Act
This law provides legal protection to victims and witnesses who may be threatened, harassed, or intimidated as a result of making a complaint or participating in legal proceedings.
International Human Rights Instruments
Sri Lanka is a State Party to the following international human rights treaties and conventions:
* Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
* Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)
* Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)
* International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
What You Can Do
✔ Report the incident immediately to the nearest Police Station.
✔ Seek urgent medical treatment and obtain a Medical Report.
✔ Preserve all available evidence, including photographs, text messages, audio recordings, videos, and other relevant materials.
✔ Obtain legal advice and legal assistance.
✔ Apply to the Court for a Protection Order where necessary.
Institutions Where Complaints Can Be Made
Sri Lanka Police
Emergency Hotline: 119
Police Women and Children Bureau
Hotline: 109
National Child Protection Authority (NCPA)
Child Helpline: 1929
Women’s Support Service
Telephone: 1938
Other Institutions That Can Receive Complaints
* Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka
* Legal Aid Commission of Sri Lanka
* National Committee on Women
* District Secretariats
* Divisional Secretariats
* Social Services Officers
Preserve the Following Evidence
* Medical Reports
* Photographs
* Video Recordings
* Audio Recordings
* WhatsApp Messages / SMS Messages
* Details of Witnesses
HRPO’s Position
The Human Rights Protection Organization (HRPO) firmly believes that domestic violence can never be justified under any circumstances. Every individual has the fundamental right to live in safety, dignity, and freedom from fear.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, or if you are aware of such an incident affecting another person, do not remain silent. Seek legal protection and social support to ensure your own safety and the safety of others.
Final Message
“Domestic violence is not a private family matter—it is a violation of human rights and an offence punishable under the law. Do not remain silent. Your voice could save a life.”
H.B.M. Priyadarshani Lakdasa
Coordinating Secretary
Human Rights Protection Organization (HRPO)