NA tables bill to criminalize unlawful eviction of women from homes

Pakistan’s National Assembly on Tuesday saw the tabling of the “Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2025,” which seeks to criminalize the unlawful eviction of women from their homes.

The bill, introduced by Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) lawmaker Sharmila Faruqui, proposes amendments to several sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).

 Under the proposed changes, any act by a husband or family member to unjustly force a woman out of her residence would constitute a criminal offence.

The draft legislation prescribes a penalty of three to six months’ imprisonment, along with a possible fine of up to Rs 200,000.

 It also specifies that such cases would fall under the jurisdiction of a First-Class Magistrate.

Aimed at providing women with stronger legal safeguards against domestic injustice, the bill was referred by the Deputy Speaker to the relevant committee for further examination before being put to a vote.

If enacted, the amendment would represent a significant step toward protecting women’s rights and reinforcing their security within the family structure.