Physical Violence

Physical violence in relationships is a very sensitive issue.  It is spoken in whispers.  Physical abuse may be between husbands and wives, live-in partners or even just a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship. Lucky women are able to get out fo the abusive relationship and make the guilty party pay for his offense. Other women are not so lucky. Although they are able to get out of the abusive relationship, they are not able to fight for their trampled right and seek justice for themselves. The unlucky ones stay in the abusive relationship, out of fear or out of emotional dependence.

What do you do when you know your friend or someone you know  is a victim of violence? I would strongly suggest (this suggestion came from a friend of mine) to go to the Women’s Desk at the nearest Police Station.  If they have a medico-legal there, then have yourself examined.  If not, go to your nearest Government hospital and look for a medico-legal.  These Government offices are open 24-hours.  You can go there anytime. Whether or not you decide to file a case against the erring partner is up to you.  At least with your medical records you have proof in your hands. 

In these cases, time is of the essence.  As soon as you have sustained your injuries and the abusive partner is nowhere in sight, go, have it reported.  If it takes days for your to report, there might be some question raised.  But in the extreme case that you were not able to report it because you were afraid for your life, then the lapse of time before you had your injuries reported may be excuseable. But please, do it now.  Have those injuries reported. There is no shame.  Don’t hide it in a bunch of long-sleeved shirts or pants.  People who do this deserved to be exposed as the animals that they really are. 

Also, when the attack happens, if possible, shout and make some noise. Attract attention so you can get witnesses. Do everything  in your power to record and detail the event.  So if ever you decide to file a case, you will have a strong one.

I hope society, in general, is provoked by this kind of behavior.  People will not just close its eyes, talk about it like some juicy gossip and not do anything. Domestic violence is more than just gossip.  It is a violation of another person’s human rights.  It is a private issue, true.  We, as outsiders cannot tell the victim or the perpetrator what to do.  Petpetrators of violence also need help because it is obvious that they have anger management issues that may be due to a lot of factors.  Drug use may be one of them.  We can take a more pro-active stance by listening and being there for the victim and give them the right, empowering information so she can make an intelligent choice on her next course of action.

Again, there is no shame.  These things happen.  We have to deal with it the best way we can.