What is a Residence Order?

A Residence Order, issued under Section 19 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, protects a woman's right to reside in the shared household, regardless of whether she owns or has a legal interest in the property. The court may restrain the respondent from evicting her, disturbing her possession, or, where appropriate, direct the respondent to provide suitable alternative accommodation or pay rent for the same.