Domestic violence during National Lockdown

The National Commission for Women (NCW) registered an increase of at least 2.5 times in domestic violence since the national lockdown, according to official data.

Domestic violence is a reality that existed prior to COVID-19 and has intensified as a result of the lockdown because women are locked in with their abusers 24×7, their housework and care work responsibilities have increased and all the stress and tensions are released on women.

According to the National Family Health Survey released by Union Health Ministry, every third woman since the age of 15, has faced domestic violence of any forms in the country.

Domestic violence is done not only by husbands but includes abuse by parents, in-laws and other family members.

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• Domestic violence includes physical, mental/emotional and financial abuse.
• The government needs to prepare a robust plan and provide adequate budgets to provide support services to survivors.
• Ensure effective implementation of Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
• Conduct campaigns that highlight that Domestic Violence is a crime, unacceptable and that the state will take firm action against it.
• One-stop centres, Women ‘s helpline, Women’s Commission are a mechanism to protect women from domestic violence.

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