Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviour in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over the other partner. It can take various forms, such as physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse. Domestic violence is a serious issue in India, and it affects people from all backgrounds, genders, and age groups.
According to a survey conducted by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) in 2015-16, approximately 30% of women aged between 15-49 years have experienced physical violence since the age of 15 years, and around 27% of women have experienced physical violence by their spouse. The survey also highlights that around 31% of married women have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence by their spouse.
The forms of domestic violence that an individual can face are varied and can be broadly classified into the following categories:
1. Physical Abuse: It involves using physical force against the victim, resulting in bodily harm or injury. It can include hitting, slapping, kicking, pushing, choking, and using weapons.
2. Emotional and Psychological Abuse: It includes verbal and non-verbal behaviour that is intended to control, intimidate, or humiliate the victim. Examples include name-calling, insulting, threatening, and isolating the victim from family and friends.
3. Sexual Abuse: It includes any unwanted sexual behaviour, such as rape, sexual assault, or forced sexual acts.
4. Economic Abuse: It involves controlling the victim’s finances, such as preventing them from working or forcing them to hand over their earnings. It can also include withholding money, property, or resources from the victim.
5. Stalking and harassment: It involves following, watching, or harassing the victim. It can include making unwanted phone calls, sending unwanted messages, or showing up uninvited at the victim’s workplace or home.
It is important to note that domestic violence is not limited to women, and men can also be victims of domestic violence. However, the prevalence of male victims of domestic violence is comparatively lower than female victims in India. According to a survey conducted by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) in 2019, around 30,414 cases of domestic violence against men were reported in India, which is less than 5% of the total cases of domestic violence reported that year.
Organizations such as Men’s Rights Associations and Save Indian Family Foundation are working to provide support and advocacy for male victims of domestic violence in India.
In addition to government efforts and support from organizations, it is important for individuals to speak out and seek help if they are experiencing domestic violence. Resources such as hotlines and shelters are available in many cities and towns throughout India, and can provide individuals with support and guidance on how to protect themselves and their families from domestic violence.
