LOCKDOWN AND RISE IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

By
SIDDHANT AGNIHOTRI
B.Sc (Silver Medalist)
M.Sc (Applied Physics)
MA IN HISTORY
NET/JRF IN HISTORY
Facebook: sid_Econnect
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EARLY LIFE
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 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence involves a pattern of

psychological, physical, sexual,
financial and emotional abuse. Acts of
assault, threats, humiliation, and
intimidation are also considered acts of
violence.
What health risks are involved with victims of domestic
violence?
• In addition to violation of human rights, victims of
domestic violence can face several physical and
mental health difficulties such as risk of chronic disease,
depression, sexual disorders, PTSD (post-traumatic
stress disorder) and substance abuse.

• Disconnection from social support systems is one of the

reasons for an increased risk of domestic violence during
these times. As a result, there are fewer options to find
safety or help for victims.
 Does the lockdown make children vulnerable to
domestic violence?

• This compounded with stress may lead to the

perpetrator projecting frustration onto the victim
to a higher degree.
• Children too have increased vulnerability to
domestic violence during this time.
• Increased stress levels, anxiety, job insecurity,
financial worry, and other such emotions of
parents can be predictor of abuse.
 What should victims do when they are attacked?
• The option of reporting domestic abuse to the police is
always available. However, if the victim does not intend
on that course of action, they can create a safety plan for
themselves, with a safe word to alert people they live
with when faced with a threatening situation.

• It is advisable to keep a friend, family, neighbour or

someone in proximity informed in case of escalating risk.
It is also helpful to discuss this with trusted family
member/s or friends and build perpetrator accountability.
There are also a number of helplines for domestic
violence and free online counselling websites.
 What should victims do when they are attacked?
• Individuals with prior abusive, aggressive tendencies,
anger management problems must work on keeping
their stress as low as possible.

• Practising self-care, limiting media exposure, taking up

online impulse control programs or seeking help through
counselling can put them in a better place.

• It is critical that helpless individuals are protected at this

time. Please keep an eye open for signs of violence
around you too. Reach out for help or direct help to the
spot.
The policemen who achieved martyrdom are:
 HELPLINE

While the DSLSA’s helpline is 1516, victims can also

contact it with a WhatsApp message or SMS on
9667992802.
STUDY IQ