Pakistan, Jan. 24 -- Pakistan's Parliament approved the Domestic Violence Act 2026 in a joint session, focusing on the social protection of wives and children. The law will apply in the federal capital, Islamabad. It criminalizes harassment, threats, and abuse within households.

Under the law, staring at a wife, threatening divorce or second marriage, and forcing her to live with others without consent are punishable offenses. Emotional or psychological abuse, including insulting or distressing wives, children, or household members, is also considered a crime.

Read more: 'Parliament to decide on Gaza troop deployment'

The act allows penalties of up to three years in prison and fines up to PKR 100,000. Failure to pay fines can result in...