Bollywood actor Celina Jaitly has filed a domestic violence complaint against her husband Peter Haag, alleging 15 years of abuse. This article explains the case, legal provisions invoked under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, and the reliefs sought before the Andheri Magistrate Court.
Celina Jaitly Approaches Court Under Domestic Violence Act
Bollywood actor Celina Jaitly has filed a detailed complaint under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) before the Judicial Magistrate, Andheri, Mumbai, accusing her husband Peter Haag, an Austrian national, of prolonged harassment and cruelty throughout their nearly 15-year marriage.
The Court has issued notice to Haag and directed him to file his response by December 12.
Allegations of Physical, Emotional, Sexual, and Financial Abuse
In her application, filed through Karanjawala & Co., Jaitly alleges that she has been subjected to emotional, physical, sexual, verbal, and financial abuse during her marriage.
According to the complaint:
- Before marriage, she was financially independent and actively engaged in her career.
- After marriage, Haag allegedly restricted her professional work, causing loss of financial independence and dignity.
- She claims she was compelled to flee their home in Austria in the middle of the night due to escalating violence, leaving behind their three children.
- Jaitly also alleges that Haag exercised complete control over her finances and assets, leaving her without resources to even pursue legal action.
Reliefs Sought Under the Domestic Violence Act
Celina Jaitly has sought multiple remedies available under the PWDVA:
- Maintenance and Financial Support (Section 20): The complaint states that she is currently unemployed and unable to afford legal expenses. She has demanded ₹10 lakh per month as daily maintenance and household support, reflecting the standard of living the couple enjoyed in Dubai.
- Child Access Rights (Section 21): Jaitly alleges that Haag has blocked her access to their children, who are presently in his custody in Austria. She has requested telephonic and virtual visitation rights under Section 21.
- Compensation for Domestic Violence (Section 22): She has sought ₹50 crore in compensation for the physical and mental cruelty allegedly inflicted upon her. The application asserts that the acts of domestic violence have been continuous, making the complaint legally within the limitation period.
Understanding the Legal Framework: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
The PWDVA is a civil legislation aimed at providing effective protection to women facing domestic abuse. Key provisions relevant to this case include:
- Section 18: Protection orders
- Section 19: Residence orders
- Section 20: Monetary relief including maintenance
- Section 21: Custody orders
- Section 22: Compensation and damages
The Act defines domestic violence broadly, covering not only physical abuse but also emotional, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse, which corresponds to the allegations made by Jaitly.
Conclusion
The complaint filed by Celina Jaitly brings into focus the wide scope of protection available to survivors under the PWDVA. The Andheri Magistrate Court’s notice to Peter Haag marks the beginning of formal legal proceedings. The case will now progress based on the husband’s response and subsequent hearings.
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