NEW DELHI: A Delhi court has granted interim protection to actress and singer Sapna Chaudhry in a case filed under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, restraining her husband from approaching, contacting or visiting her until the next hearing, according to news agency ANI.The order was passed by the Judicial Magistrate (Mahila Court) at Dwarka Courts after hearing submissions made by Advocate Preeti Singh, who appeared on behalf of Chaudhry. The court also directed the Protection Officer concerned and the local Station House Officer (SHO) to ensure compliance with the order and provide assistance to the petitioner whenever required.According to the court order, Chaudhry’s counsel stated that she is the legally wedded wife of the respondent and was forced to leave the shared household because of his alleged conduct. It was submitted that she is currently living at her parental home in Najafgarh, New Delhi.The court noted that the petitioner had filed an affidavit regarding the marriage and that supporting documents would be submitted on the next date of hearing. Observing that sufficient material had been placed on record at this stage, the court issued summons to the respondent and directed the Protection Officer to file a Domestic Incident Report (DIR).Seeking immediate relief, Advocate Singh requested an ex parte protection order, citing allegations of domestic violence and concerns that such incidents could recur. The court was informed that Chaudhry, who works in the entertainment industry, was due to attend the premiere of her film “Momacu” on June 10, 2026, and feared that the respondent could threaten or assault her, or create a public disturbance that might affect her reputation and professional commitments.The counsel argued that granting temporary protection would not cause any prejudice to the respondent, whereas refusing relief could seriously affect the petitioner’s safety and professional obligations.While considering the plea, the court examined the material placed on record, including the petitioner’s affidavit, photographs said to prima facie show injuries on her body, and a pen drive containing audio recordings submitted in support of the allegations.Taking note of the material and submissions presented before it, the court restrained the respondent from approaching the petitioner in any manner until the next date of hearing. The respondent was also barred from contacting her, visiting her residence or workplace, whether temporary or permanent, including the venue of the film premiere, and from committing any act of domestic violence.The court further directed that copies of the order be sent to the Protection Officer and the local SHO for implementation. The Protection Officer has been instructed to serve the order on the respondent, while the SHO has been directed to provide protection and necessary assistance to the petitioner if required.The matter is scheduled to be heard next on July 25, 2026.
