The Covid-19 pandemic significantly changed family dynamics. Especially lockdown made the lives of women even more difficult since they had to juggle household chores and manage their work.
According to the official data of the National Commission for Women 2,383 domestic violence complaints were filed between January and May in 2021, the highest for any year since 2000.
Uttar Pradesh received the most complaints, while Delhi had the highest complaint rate. According to NFHS-5 data, 70% of women in the major states who experienced physical abuse did not report it. Even among those who sought assistance, only a small percentage contacted the appropriate authorities.
The main reason behind this is Covid-19 induced lockdown “trapped” women in their own houses and deprived them of breathing space or their personal space. Domestic helpers were also removed by families over the fear of Covid, so ultimately from cooking, cleaning to washing, the burden of all the household fell on her. The condition of the working women is worse, as they had to juggle between work and family. Work from home during lockdown is an additional burden. Amid Pandemic induced lockdown women are facing the brunt and frustration arising from financial instability. They are being abused physically or mentally in their own houses.
Dear woman, these are unprecedented situations and if you are the victim of such violence, instead of suppressing the grievances be more vocal and less tolerant. Spread awareness among others too.
However, because of social media, the reporting of domestic violence has increased. But even today many women are suffering from abuse every day as they suffer alone. Remember, together we can break the wall of silence and put a full stop to domestic violence. We know domestic violence causes far more pain than visible scars. It’s high time that all of us raise our voice for our happiness and ensure our safety in our own houses.