Indian Domestic Violence: The Unreported Increase Amid COVID-19 Lockdowns
Although mostly a health disaster, the COVID-19 epidemic has also made societal problems worse, such as domestic violence against women in India. A more complex and concerning picture emerges from a deeper look at the data, despite some reports suggesting a decline in complaints.
An increase in grievances During the first lockdown, the National Commission for Women (NCW) received a notably higher number of complaints of domestic abuse. Compared to the pre-lockdown period, NCW recorded a 2.5-fold rise in complaints between March 25 and May 31, 2020. In particular, there were 1,477 complaints in April 2020, compared to 607 in March 2020. Inconsistencies in reports Despite this, the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) produces conflicting results. Bihar reported a much higher rate of 40.4 percent of spousal violence among ever-married women aged 18–49, compared to some states like Karnataka, where the prevalence was 20.6 percent. The data indicates that domestic violence continues to be prevalent, yet it may not always receive regular reporting due to various factors.
The Reasons Behind Underreporting The general rise in violence stands in stark contrast to the apparent fall in helpline calls in certain locations, such as the 50 percent drop revealed by Delhi-based NGO Jagori. This decrease occurs due to the confinement of victims with their abusers, making it difficult for them to seek assistance. The expression “locked down with the abuser” perfectly expresses the situation that many women encountered throughout the pandemic.
Stress and violence in the economy The economic effects of the pandemic exacerbated tensions within the country. The lockdown increased stress and tension at home by causing a large number of job losses and financial uncertainty. The lockdown disproportionately affected women, particularly those in the informal sector, making them more vulnerable to domestic abuse. Both the government and the people have launched initiatives. Localized initiatives by NGOs and community groups provide some respite in spite of these obstacles. Local support networks and neighborhood watch programs, for example, have helped lessen the effects of domestic abuse in some communities. The scope of the crisis also hampered the efficacy of government initiatives, including awareness campaigns and emergency helpline services, which attempted to address the issue.
The truth is more nuanced, even though official statistics may indicate a decline in domestic abuse cases in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in domestic abuse incidents and the difficulties in reporting and receiving assistance highlight the importance of providing women with strong and easily accessible support networks. It is imperative to comprehend and tackle the intricate aspects of domestic abuse during crises in order to safeguard vulnerable populations and guarantee their well-being.
