A Crime Behind Closed Doors

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

THE SILENT PANDEMIC

For millions of women, the home is not a sanctuary—it is a prison. Domestic Violence is more than just physical abuse; it is the systematic breaking of a person's spirit through fear, control, and isolation.

It happens in rich homes and poor huts alike. It is hidden by curtains, silenced by shame, and ignored by society. But silence is not peace. Silence is complicity.

BREAK THE SILENCE →KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Part 2: The Scope

The Scale of Abuse

Analysis of NFHS-5 Survey & NCRB Data (2022-23)

31%

Prevalence (India)

1 in 3 Women Affected

4.4L

Cases Filed (2022)

Under Section 498A/BNS 85

86%

Never Seek Help

Suffering in Silence

Top

Crime Against Women

Cruelty by Husband

Beyond Black Eyes

Violence isn't always visible bruises. It includes Economic Abuse (controlling money), Emotional Abuse (gaslighting, insults), and Sexual Violence (marital rape). The goal is always the same: Power and Control.

The Trap of Dependency

Financial Control: Many victims are prevented from working or accessing bank accounts, making escape impossible.
Fear for Children: Abusers threaten to take away custody or harm the children if the mother leaves.
Isolation: Cutting off contact with family and friends so the victim has no support system.

TRAUMA SCAN...

The Hidden Injuries

Chronic Anxiety / PTSDSevere

Living in constant "Fight or Flight" mode.

Reproductive Health IssuesHigh Risk

Forced abortions, miscarriages due to stress/trauma.

Self-Esteem ErosionTotal Loss

Believing they "deserve" the abuse.

"The most dangerous place for a woman in India is not a dark alley, but her own home."

Part 3: The Law

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023

Replacing IPC 498A with stronger definitions.

BNS Section 85

Cruelty by Husband/Relatives

"Whoever, being the husband or relative... subjects a woman to cruelty (mental or physical harassment)... shall be punished."

Up to 3 Years Jail + Fine

PWDVA 2005

Civil Protection Law

Provides "Protection Orders" to stop abuse instantly, "Residence Orders" (cannot be kicked out), and monetary relief.

Immediate Relief

Key Legal Rights

Right to Residence

A woman cannot be evicted from the "Shared Household" regardless of who owns it. (PWDVA Section 17).

Protection Officers

Every district has Protection Officers to assist victims in filing cases and finding shelter without needing a lawyer initially.

BNS Section 86 (Dowry Cruelty)

Specific punishment for cruelty related to unlawful demands for property or dowry.

Part 4: The Barriers

Why Do They Stay?

Financial Dependency

"If I leave, how will I feed my kids?" This is the #1 reason women stay. Abusers often control all assets.

Social Stigma

Divorce is still seen as a failure. Families pressure daughters to "adjust" and "compromise" to save family honor.

Lack of Shelter

Women often have nowhere to go. Parental homes may refuse them, and government shelters are often overcrowded.

Gaslighting

Abusers manipulate victims into believing they are crazy, incompetent, or that the abuse is their own fault.

Legal Fatigue

Court cases take years. Survivors are often dragged to court repeatedly, draining them emotionally and financially.

YOUR ROLE

Believe survivors. Offer a safe space. Do not judge them for staying; help them plan for leaving.

Part 5: The Response

BRAC SANCTUARY PROTOCOL

Our integrated strategy to help women escape, heal, and rebuild.

1. Crisis Intervention

Immediate help when danger strikes.

• Helpline Support: 24/7 counseling and police coordination.

• Extraction: Safe transport for women and children leaving abusers.

• Medical Aid: Treating physical injuries and documenting evidence.

2. Safe Shelters

A roof without fear.

• Short Stay Homes: Secure locations for immediate safety (up to 6 months).

• Child Care: Schools and creches within shelters for kids.

• Anonymity: Locations are kept secret to prevent stalkers.

3. Legal Advocacy

Fighting for rights in court.

• Protection Orders: Getting court orders to stop abuse.

• Custody Battles: Fighting for the mother's right to her children.

• Divorce/Alimony: Securing financial maintenance.

4. Economic Independence

The key to freedom.

• Skill Training: Tailoring, computers, beauty culture.

• Job Placement: Partnering with safe employers.

• Seed Grants: Small capital for home-based businesses.

5. Psychosocial Healing

Recovering self-worth.

• Trauma Therapy: Professional counseling for PTSD.

• Support Groups: Survivor circles sharing strength.

Part 6: The Transformation

When a woman escapes violence, she doesn't just save herself. She breaks the cycle for her children and inspires her community.

Safe Childhoods

Children grow up without witnessing abuse, stopping the intergenerational cycle.

Economic Power

Financially independent survivors contribute to the economy instead of suffering in silence.

Justice Served

Every conviction sends a message: Domestic Violence is a crime, not a family matter.

ACTIVATE HOPE

Select your impact level. 85% of funds go directly to programs.

IMPACT LEVEL 1

₹2,000

Provides an "Emergency Escape Kit" (clothes, hygiene, food) for a survivor.

DONATE NOW

RECOMMENDED

IMPACT LEVEL 2

₹15,000

Funds legal representation for filing a Protection Order & Divorce.

DONATE NOW

IMPACT LEVEL 3

₹60,000

Sponsors a stay in a Safe House for a mother and child for 6 months.

DONATE NOW

Tax Deductible under Section 80G.

Transparency: You will receive a donation receipt & impact report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is emotional abuse considered violence?

Yes. Under PWDVA 2005, "verbal and emotional abuse" (insults, humiliation, threats) is a punishable offence, just like physical hitting.

Can my husband throw me out of the house?

No. You have a legal "Right to Residence" in the shared household, even if it is owned by your husband or in-laws. They cannot evict you without due process.

Does BRAC provide lawyers?

Yes. We partner with DLSA (District Legal Services Authority) and private pro-bono lawyers to provide free legal representation for survivors.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes. BRAC is registered under Section 80G. You will receive a tax exemption certificate via email within 7 days.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws may vary by location. BRAC is not responsible for errors, omissions, or consequences arising from its use. BRAC® is a registered trademark. Unauthorized commercial use is prohibited. For corrections or permissions, email info@brac.in