Domestic Violence: A curse for women

Abstract

Domestic violence is a global issue reaching across national boundaries as well as socio-economic, cultural, racial and class distinctions. This problem is not only widely dispersed geographically, but its incidence is also extensive, making it a typical and accepted behavior. Domestic violence is wide spread, deeply ingrained and has serious impacts on women's health and well-being. Domestic violence is perpetrated by, and on, both men and women. However, most commonly, the victims are women, especially in our country. Even in the United States, it has been reported that 85% of all violent crime experienced by women are cases of intimate partner violence, compared to 3% of violent crimes experienced by men. Thus, domestic violence in Indian context mostly refers to domestic violence against women. The World Health Organization reports that the proportion of women who had ever experienced physical or sexual violence or both by an intimate partner ranged from 15% to 71%, with the majority between 29% and 62%. Economic dependence has been found to be the central reason. Without the ability to sustain them economically, women are forced to stay in abusive relationships and are not able to be free from violence. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is not sufficient against domestic violence so it is very necessary women should aware about their right and take strong steps against domestic violence.

Key words –  a global issue, domestic violence, women and serious impacts.