Domestic violence on the rise in Mandya district

Domestic violence against women is on the rise in the district despite the stringent the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, which was introduced in 2005.

According to the statistics, 193 cases of family violence have been reported in the district after the Act was implemented.

Out of the 193 cases, 78 have been resolved through mediation. Around 115 cases are in various stages of enquiry. Malavalli taluk in the district tops the list with 50 cases and Maddur is the last with seven cases.

Women suffering from mental or physical harrassment by the husband or his family members can lodge a case under the Act. However, there is no provision for the affected women to lodge a complaint at the police station, and those approaching the police are referred to the Women Protection Cell.

The Child Development Project Officers (CDPO) of respective taluks serve as the protection officer and conduct enquiry at the mediation centres. Advocates selected/identified by the taluk legal services authorities will appear for the case, which will be held twice a week- Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The CDPOs, who register the cases, summon the victims' husbands and try to solve the problem through mediation. If the mediation fails, such cases are referred to the court and a report submitted in this regard.

Heightened awareness

Speaking to DH, Mandya CDPO Chetan said, the rising incidents of domestic violence is due to awareness among the women about the Act as many victims approach the competent authority seeking relief. "Various departments have taken up programmes to educate women in this regard in cities and villages. As the women are now aware of the step to be taken in case they face domestic violence, the number of cases has seen a rise," he said

The domestic violence cases were prevalent even before the Act was implemented but the cases are being highlighted post-legislation, he said.

Child Welfare Committee member Gowri Venkatesh said, the lifestyle of the modern women has changed but the mentality of the husbands is still conservative. As the women are multitasking, the husbands should extend support to their wives in daily chores. The lack of support from husbands is leading to the misunderstanding between the couples. Women are not ready to accept the domestic violence and raise their voice. The Act has come as a boon for the women, she added.

Sixty days deadline

According to law, the magistrates have to settle domestic violence-related cases within 60 days. But, it is not possible to dispose of the matter in 60 days for multiple reasons. Some cases even take years. Clients absenting themselves for enquiry is the main reason, said advocate Guruprasad.