UP: Woman Attacked With Hot Oil And Acid, Held Captive For A Week By Husband And In-Laws

Pilibhit: In another case of domestic violence, a 35-year-old Uttar Pradesh woman was allegedly beaten up and attacked with hot oil and acid by her husband and in-laws. The incident took place in Pilibhit district where the woman was held hostage for over a week as well.

Reportedly, the woman, Kausar married her husband, Kasim almost a year ago. In her complaint with the police, she said that she was held captive on July 9 and beaten up by her husband and his family. She alleged that her neck was burnt using hot oil, and her fingers and toes were also attacked with acid. Not only that, she was deprived of food and water. Later, on July 17, she was thrown out of the house.

“On the complaint lodged by the woman at Puranpur police station late last night, a case has been registered against her husband and in-laws,” Superintendent of Police Balendu Bhushan Singh told PTI. Looking at the seriousness of the allegations, the police said that they are going to probe into the case.

Domestic Violence in India

Domestic violence is an issue of growing concern in our society today. However, more often than not, the victims tend to deny their situation and hide behind the facade of a happy family and a happy home.

The National Family Health Survey (NHFS-4) released by the Union health ministry, reported that one in every three women in the country, since the age of 15, has faced some form of domestic violence, in their lifetime. According to the survey, 27% of Indian women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15. Besides, 31% of married women have experienced various forms of physical, sexual, or emotional violence by their spouses.

However, what is more, worrying is that most of these cases go unreported- most likely to avoid public humiliation and the victim-blaming attitude of the society.

The Indian Government introduced protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act in 2005, but it has been unsuccessful in curbing domestic violence in India since it’s a civil remedy and the cases that get registered under it are not treated as a criminal.

The Logical Indian take

It is important to understand that violence is not restricted to just one gender. Cases of domestic violence are rampant in India, and more often than not, the victims are silenced. Authorities must ensure that the victim’s interests are protected and catered to with sensitivity while handling cases like that of domestic abuse.

Also Read: Good To Know: What To Do If You Are A Victim Of Domestic Violence?

Also published on Medium.