Domestic Violence Against Women

Domestic violence against women is manifested in the form of physical, psychological, sexual and economic assaults. Sometimes it even takes the shape of torture and killings. In most cases, the women remain silent and bear the violence inflicted upon them.

Domestic violence is the most prevalent form of violence against women and girls. Most female victims of domestic violence experience physical violence and sexual abuse at the hands of their partners or other family members.

The family is generally considered a safe haven for its members. However, statistical evidence shows that most drastic forms of violence against women and girls are perpetrated in the family. Male members of family, namely husbands, fathers, father-in-laws, stepfathers, brothers, uncles, and other relatives perpetrate violence against women. In some cases, women are also involved in the violence.

Whatever be the reason and whoever the perpetrator, the victim must bear the brunt and lead a life full of sorrow and humiliation.

Domestic violence against women is a process of cyclical abuse. It is manifested in various forms throughout women's lives...

At the very beginning of life, family members often opt for sex-selective abortion. During her childhood, a girl is subjected to enforced malnutrition and deprivation of basic facilities in comparison with her male siblings and other male members of the family. In many cases, she does not get proper education or even adequate medical care. Girls in their adolescence are subjected to incest, sexual abuse, early marriage, and even prostitution.

Domestic violence against women includes forced pregnancy, abortion and sterilization. Women are also subjected to other social evils such as social violence, verbal abuse, and constant physical abuse from men under the influence of alcohol.

Women are also subjected to psychological abuse. This form of domestic violence occurs through repeated humiliation and insults, limitation on social mobility, denial of economic resources, or constant threats of violence and injury. The psychological aspect of domestic violence appears to be subtle when compared to physical and sexual abuse, but can have far reaching impact on the health and personality of the victim.

This subtle and insidious form of violence makes women feel mentally destabilized and powerless. In many instances, the physical, psychological and economic abuses have proved fatal for women.

Proper education, employment opportunity, legal support, and the right to inherit property must be provided to women in order to prevent domestic violence against women. Proper assistance such as counseling, financial support, employment and relocation must be provided to women who are victims of or have escaped from domestic-violence situations.