Domestic violence remains one of India’s most pervasive and persistent human rights issues. Despite significant legal frameworks and efforts to protect individuals, particularly women, domestic violence continues to thrive in Indian households across socioeconomic strata. This article explores the nature, legal responses, societal challenges, and solutions surrounding domestic violence in India. 1. What is Domestic Violence? Domestic violence refers to any form of physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse within a domestic setting, such as in marriage or family. It can include behaviors that seek to intimidate, humiliate, or control a partner or family member. Domestic violence affects not only women but also men, children, and the elderly. However, women are disproportionately affected by domestic violence in India due to deep-seated patriarchal norms. 2. Legal Framework in India India has several laws aimed at addressing and curbing domestic violence. The most notable among them are: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) The PWDVA is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to protect women from domestic violence. The law defines domestic violence broadly to include physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse. It allows women to seek protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief from the court. The key provisions of the PWDVA are: Indian Penal Code (IPC), Section 498A Section 498A of the IPC criminalizes cruelty by a husband or his family towards a wife. It includes any willful conduct that drives a woman to suicide, causes grave injury, or constitutes harassment for dowry. If convicted, the accused can face imprisonment for up to three years. Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 Although not specifically about domestic violence, this Act aims to prevent the practice of giving or taking dowry. Dowry harassment is a major contributor to domestic violence in India. Family Courts The establishment of family courts across India provides a forum for the resolution of marital disputes, including cases of domestic violence. These courts can grant divorce, child custody, and maintenance orders, which are often linked to incidents of abuse. 3. Statistics and Reality Despite the existence of strong legal protections, domestic violence remains underreported in India. Several factors contribute to this: According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted in 2019-2021: 4. Challenges in Tackling Domestic Violence 5. Government and NGO Initiatives The Indian government, along with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs), has initiated several programs and campaigns to address domestic violence: 6. Role of Society Changing societal attitudes toward domestic violence is crucial in eradicating this problem. Initiatives should focus on: 7. Conclusion Domestic violence is a critical issue in India that requires urgent attention. While the legal framework is strong, better implementation, support systems, and a shift in societal attitudes are essential to bring about meaningful change. Empowering women, raising awareness, and involving communities in addressing domestic violence can pave the way for a safer and more equal society.