Shoukat Lohar.
Domestic violence is present in almost every society of the world. The term can be classified on various bases. Violence against spouses, children or the elderly is a few of some commonly encountered cases. There are various kinds of tactics that are adopted by the attacker against the victim. Physical abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse or deprivation, economical deprivation/ abuse, etc. are the most common kinds of abuses that are faced by the victims.
Domestic violence is not only a problem in developing or underdeveloped countries. It is very much prevalent in developed countries also. Domestic violence is a reflection of our pseudo-civilized society. There is no place for violence in the civilized world. But the number of cases that are reported every year raises a high alarm. And this is not the complete picture, as; most of the cases go unregistered or unnoticed in everyday life. This is a very dangerous trend creeping into our society and has to be dealt with iron hands.
Women and children are often the soft targets. In Indian society, the situation is really gruesome. A significant number of deaths are taking place on daily basis, as a result of domestic violence only. Illiteracy, economical dependency on menfolk, and the otherwise male-dominated society are some of the attributing factors to the problem. Dowry is one of the leading causes that results in violence against newly-wed brides. Physically assaulting women, making horrendous remarks, and depriving them of basic human rights are often showcased in many parts of the country. Similarly, children are also made the target of this inhuman behavior.
Serious in-sighting is required in the matter. The double standards and hypocrisy of the society members are evident in such matters. Many times, the abuser is either psychotic in behavior or requires psychological counseling for this errant behavior. But generally, domestic violence is a result of cumulative irresponsible behavior demonstrated by a section of society. Not only the abuser is the main culprit but those who are allowing it to happen and behave like a mute spectator are the partners of the crime. Recently, in India, to cope with the situation, a campaign, called ‘bell Baja was launched. The main motive of the campaign was to motivate the individuals of the society to raise their voice against the domestic violence happening in-home and around. The campaign was a big hit and successfully managed to draw the attention of crowds towards this issue.
The government has also made and enforced the domestic violence act. The rules and regulations have been introduced in section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code. Law gives an effective shelter and deals strictly with the culprits. But making a law is not sufficient. People will have to wake and arise. They have to be told about their rights and duties. Every human being deserves basic honor and respect. No one is entitled to take the law into his hands. Besides, law enforcement, domestic violence has deeper roots. It is the mentality of the society that covets an overhauling. Society is in turn nothing but the constitution of individuals. Every individual should make the necessary amendments and society will change. It is high time to raise a voice against the injustice happening to self and others. Domestic violence has no place in modern society and should be strongly dealt with.