Domestic Violence In India – Stay Safe With Adriot
Domestic violence is a social evil that is prevalent all around you. As per a survey in 2018, domestic violence cases in rural areas were at 29% while in urban areas it was at 23%. However, sadly, the numbers are showing an upward trajectory.
In India, even today, a majority of domestic violence cases unreported. Husbands have been seen as the perpetrator in most domestic violence cases in India. About 31% of married women experience sexual, physical or emotional violence by their spouse. Physical violence is the most common type of spousal violence, followed by emotional abuse. Sometimes, domestic violence is the direct cause of dowry demands.
But, it is not just married women who face domestic violence. Even unmarried women become victims of domestic violence, especially physical violence and the common perpetrators are usually mothers or step-mother, sisters or brothers, fathers or step-father, and teachers.
It is alarming to note that even in educated India of today, dowry deaths and domestic violence is rampant. We all know people among our friends or even in our families who have either perpetrated it or faced domestic violence at some point. But, how often do we do something about it?
Well, it is high time that you wake up and take notice of what’s happening around you. There are three laws in India that directly deal with domestic violence.
The protection of women and domestic violence act, 2005 – This is a civil law that protects women from the men in the household. This law is not just for those women who are married, but it is also applicable for live-in partners and other family members like, grandmothers and mothers. Under this law, women are allowed to seek protection against domestic violence and can even claim maintenance to live separate from their abuser.
Dowry Prohibition Act – A lot of women are subject to domestic violence as a result of dowry. This act punishes the act of taking, as well as, giving dowry.
Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code – This is a criminal law that applies to husbands and the relatives of the husbands who are being cruel to women. Cruelty refers to all such activities that can severely injure the woman – physically, mentally or emotionally.
Domestic violence is a social evil and it is time that you took a step towards putting a stop to it. If you want to get a better understanding of the Acts and laws in place or want to gather evidence regarding your in-laws or relatives to present to court, you can reach out to Adriot Analytical Agencies Pvt. Ltd.