Experts discuss evidence-based strategies to address domestic, sexual violence in India

Bengaluru: Researchers from the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC), Bengaluru, and Deakin University, Australia, convened to discuss evidence-based approaches to reduce domestic and sexual violence in India.

The event, titled Research and Police Forum on Addressing Domestic and Sexual Violence in India, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Karnataka and Australian governments, NGOs, subject-matter experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and youth participants.

Lata Satyen, Associate Professor at the School of Psychology, Deakin University, shared alarming statistics highlighting the global prevalence of domestic and sexual violence faced by Indian women.

In her inaugural address, Nagalakshmi Chaudhary, Chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for Women, revealed a staggering 1,200% increase in violence against women in recent years. She called for enhanced social participation and women’s empowerment to drive meaningful change.

Corrine Kumar, CEO and Founder of Vimochana, an NGO supporting victims of domestic violence since 1979, emphasised the need to address systemic and macro-level factors influencing inequality and development. She underscored the urgency of combating institutional violence, ensuring human rights, and addressing the emerging role of artificial intelligence in exacerbating violence.

Prof Channamma Kambara from ISEC and Prof Lata Satyen from Deakin University were the coordinators of the program.