According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), approximately 29.3% of Indian women aged 18-49 have experienced spousal physical, sexual, or emotional violence. Yet, societal response remains largely indifferent. [Source: NFHS-5, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare]
In many households, domestic abuse is tolerated or rationalized as a private matter or ‘part of marriage,’ suppressing victims’ voices and perpetuating cycles of violence. [Source: Indian Journal of Social Work, studies on family attitudes]
Victims often face gaslighting from relatives, in-laws, and even parents; reporting abuse is frequently seen as inviting social stigma rather than justice. [Source: Human Rights Watch, reporting and stigma]
The normalization of male violence under cultural or traditional pretenses raises critical questions about patriarchal norms and the undue burden placed on women to preserve family unity at personal cost. [Source: Economic & Political Weekly, gender & patriarchy studies]
Changing this oppressive silence requires societal awakening, education, legal reforms, and community support systems that empower victims and challenge harmful norms. [Source: National Commission for Women, support & reform programs]
What Will It Take to Break the Silence?
Solutions must begin with honest societal self-reflection and robust support—removing stigma for survivors, enforcing the law, funding shelters, and encouraging open conversations in every household. Have you noticed this silence too? What will it take for us to truly shift the national mindset?