Spike in cases of domestic abuse against women

The city has witnessed a sharp increase in the cases of domestic violence against women, reveals a city-based NGO.

According to the data from the NGO, Parihar – Vanitha Sahayavani, of the 1,200 cases brought to the notice of the NGO from this January to August, as many as 763 cases pertained to marital disharmony. Among these, domestic violence tops the list with 330 cases followed by 251 cases of incompatibility among the couple and 180 cases of extra-marital relationships. 

“The number of domestic violence cases keeps increasing. We refer some of the cases to the police,” said Rani Shetty, in-charge of Parihar. She said it was common in all strata of society and is triggered by several reasons such as ego clashes and alcoholism. The cases are either settled, referred to psychiatrists, referred to police station or to legal aid.

“People have become impatient. With a little patience, it will not go beyond their houses,” said Sheetal, programme officer of Vanitha Sahayavani.

Most of the victims of domestic violence in the city are in the age-group of 25 to 35 years, she said and added that domestic violence against women in the city was around 32% two years back, it has increased to 48% this year.