Was it abuse, or was it normal?

Learn what domestic violence is

By Sayali

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is one of the most pervasive yet underrepresented forms of abuse in India. Despite social progress and legal reforms, countless individuals continue to suffer silently within their homes. Understanding what domestic violence truly entail, how it manifests, and the protections available under Indian law is essential for building a safer and more just society.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence refers to any form of abuse inflicted by one person upon another within a domestic relationship—such as between spouses, partners, family members, or those living in the same household. It extends beyond physical harm and includes emotional, sexual, verbal, and economic abuse.

In India, domestic violence is legally defined under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005, which aims to provide civil remedies and protection for women facing violence at home

Forms of Domestic Violence

1. Physical Abuse

This includes acts of physical harm—hitting, slapping, pushing, burning, or using weapons. It is the most visible form of domestic violence but often just one part of a larger pattern of control.

2. Emotional or Psychological Abuse

This involves behavior that damages an individual’s self-worth or mental well-being. Constant criticism, humiliation, isolation from friends and family, and threats of harm fall under this category.

3. Sexual Abuse

Forcing or coercing a partner into unwanted sexual acts, denying consent, or engaging in sexual humiliation are forms of sexual abuse. The law recognizes marital rape as a serious issue, though it is still not criminalized for adult married women under Indian penal law—a matter of ongoing debate.

4. Verbal and Emotional Abuse

Name-calling, accusations, or constant degradation are forms of verbal abuse that can leave long-lasting emotional scars.

5. Economic or Financial Abuse

This includes restricting access to money, preventing a woman from working, seizing her earnings, or denying basic financial support to maintain control.

Legal Protections Against Domestic Violence in India

India has taken several legislative and institutional measures to combat domestic violence:

1. Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005

This landmark law recognizes multiple forms of abuse—physical, emotional, sexual, and economic—and provides civil remedies rather than only criminal penalties.

Key provisions include:

Protection Orders to prevent the abuser from committing further acts of violence.

Residence Orders ensuring that the victim cannot be evicted from her home.

Monetary Relief for maintenance and damages.

Custody Orders for children’s safety.

Free Legal Aid and support through Protection Officers and NGOs.

2. Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)

Introduced in 1983, this section criminalizes cruelty by a husband or his relatives. “Cruelty” includes physical or mental harm and harassment related to dowry demands. It is a cognizable and non-bailable offense.

3. Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961

This law makes the giving, taking, or demanding of dowry illegal and punishable. It was one of the first steps toward addressing violence linked to dowry harassment.

4. Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC)

It allows women, children, and dependent parents to claim maintenance from a person who neglects or refuses to provide financial support.

The Need for Awareness

Domestic violence doesn’t just harm individuals—it damages families, communities, and the nation’s social fabric. Victims often face stigma, fear of retaliation, and lack of support, leading to underreporting. Breaking this silence requires:

Awareness campaigns in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Sensitization of law enforcement and judicial officers.

Encouraging bystander intervention—friends, neighbors, and colleagues can play a critical role in helping victims seek help.