Intimate partner violence in India: Patterns, causes and way forward

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) refers to the physical, sexual, and emotional abuse that can occur between intimate partners or spouse. 1 out of 4 women globally estimated to experience some kind of violence and in this context IPV is a major issue, especially for women. This paper tries to explores the different forms IPV including physical violence to emotional manipulation and controlling behaviors. It examines the cyclical nature of abuse related to IPV and the key factors that increase IPV risk, such as relationship conflicts, poverty, substance abuse, mental health issues, and societal gender norms around power dynamics. With special reference to India, the paper analyzes national survey data showing high rates of domestic violence across many states. While laws like the Domestic Violence Act exist, social stigma and power imbalances prevent many victims from reporting abuse. The paper emphasizes on the basis of the analysis of the literature that addressing IPV requires a multi-faceted approach which must include- promoting gender equality, strict law enforcement, providing mental health support, and crucially, changing mindsets through community engagement to remove stigma around this issue and create mass level awareness among people. Only a concerted effort from all sectors of society can prevent IPV effectively.