In a recent ruling, the Delhi High Court reiterated the universality of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005, emphasizing its applicability to all women regardless of their religious or social backgrounds. This stance came as the court dismissed a plea filed by a husband and his relatives challenging an appellate court order that reinstated a domestic violence complaint filed by the wife.
Extent of Domestic Violence in India
Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue in India, with alarming statistics highlighting its prevalence. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019 and 2021, approximately 29.3% of married Indian women aged 18 to 49 have experienced domestic or sexual violence. Furthermore, 3.1% of pregnant women in the same age group reported suffering physical violence during pregnancy. These figures, however, likely underestimate the true scale of the problem, as many cases go unreported.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the perpetuation of domestic violence in Indian society. Gender disparities, fueled by traditional patriarchal norms and a wide gender gap, often lead to the assertion of male dominance and entitlement within relationships. Substance abuse, particularly alcoholism, exacerbates violent tendencies and impairs judgment, while the persistence of the dowry culture further exacerbates tensions within marriages.
Legal Frameworks and Global Initiatives
India has enacted various legal frameworks to address domestic violence, including the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005 and amendments to the Indian Penal Code. However, challenges in enforcement persist due to social stigma, lack of awareness, and economic dependency among victims. Globally, initiatives such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the UN Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women (DEVAW) provide frameworks for addressing domestic violence and promoting gender equality.
Challenges in Enforcement
Enforcing laws against domestic violence faces numerous challenges, including societal stigma, victims' economic dependency, and inadequate implementation of legal provisions. Additionally, complex family dynamics and regional variations in cultural norms further complicate efforts to combat domestic violence.
The Way Forward
Addressing domestic violence requires a multifaceted approach that addresses underlying societal attitudes and power dynamics. Initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality, providing legal assistance to victims, and fostering economic empowerment are essential. Furthermore, comprehensive training for law enforcement and judicial personnel is crucial to ensure a victim-centered approach in handling domestic violence cases.
In conclusion, while legal frameworks exist to address domestic violence in India, effective enforcement and societal change are necessary to combat this pervasive issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all women, irrespective of their backgrounds.
